6.3.4
Water-Conscious Building Standards
The University of Thessaly (UTh) is committed to integrating water efficiency and conservation principles into the design, construction, renovation, and maintenance of all University buildings and facilities.
This policy establishes standards that ensure every new or refurbished structure supports the responsible use of water resources, minimizes waste, and protects the natural environment.
Purpose
The aims of this policy are to:
Embed water-efficient design into all campus development and construction projects.
Promote reuse and recycling of non-potable water where technically and legally feasible.
Reduce total water consumption and operating costs through sustainable engineering solutions.
Align campus infrastructure with national and EU environmental frameworks and SDG 6, 9, 11, and 12.
Legal and Technical Framework
This policy complies with:
Law 4067/2012 (New Building Regulation – Νέος Οικοδομικός Κανονισμός),
Law 4412/2016 (Public Procurement of Works and Services),
Presidential Decree 51/2007 transposing Directive 2000/60/EC (EU Water Framework Directive),
Directive 2010/31/EU on the energy and environmental performance of buildings,
Joint Ministerial Decision 5673/400/1997 (urban wastewater and water reuse), and
The University of Thessaly Sustainability and Infrastructure Plan.
Scope
Applies to all:
New construction projects, major renovations, and infrastructure upgrades,
Laboratories, classrooms, residences, sports and agricultural facilities, and
Design consultants, contractors, and University departments involved in planning, procurement, or operation.
Key Provisions
- Water-Efficient Design
New and renovated buildings shall include low-flow plumbing fixtures, aerated faucets, and dual-flush toilets.
Smart metering systems will monitor real-time water consumption.
Irrigation systems must use drip technology and weather-based controllers.
- Rainwater and Greywater Reuse
Architectural designs shall incorporate rainwater harvesting for landscape irrigation or cleaning uses.
Greywater recycling systems may supply non-potable water to toilets or cooling towers, subject to regulatory approval.
Storage tanks and reuse systems must comply with KYA 145116/2011 on treated wastewater reuse.
- Landscape and Outdoor Planning
Landscaping projects must prioritize native, drought-resistant species requiring minimal irrigation.
Paved areas shall be designed to minimize runoff and promote infiltration through permeable surfaces.
- Construction and Maintenance Practices
Contractors shall follow environmentally responsible site-management procedures, preventing pollution of nearby water systems.
Maintenance teams will perform regular inspections of plumbing and irrigation systems to prevent leaks and losses.
Use of potable water for construction cleaning or dust suppression should be minimized.
- Monitoring and Reporting
The Technical Services Department monitors water performance data for all facilities.
Annual reports summarizing water consumption, savings, and best practices will be published.
Projects achieving notable reductions will be recognized in the University’s Sustainability Awards program.
- Education and Innovation
The University promotes research and academic projects related to sustainable architecture, water-efficient technologies, and green infrastructure.
Design and engineering students are encouraged to incorporate water-conscious solutions in coursework and theses.
Governance
Responsible Authority: Rector.
Operational Oversight: Technical Services Department.
Advisory Support: Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture.
Review
This policy will be reviewed every three years or when new building standards or environmental regulations are adopted.
Through this framework, the University of Thessaly ensures that its built environment contributes to a water-secure, resource-efficient, and climate-resilient campus.