6.3.5 Water-Conscious Planting at UniMAP

Expanding Greenery with Sustainable Landscaping

Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) actively promotes water-conscious landscaping practices to support environmental sustainability and biodiversity.

Through this initiative, UniMAP has expanded its campus greenery with 7,166 plants, integrating sustainability principles into every stage of campus landscape design and maintenance.

The initiative under SDG 6.3.5 – Water-Conscious Planting emphasizes the importance of using drought-tolerant, native plant species and efficient watering techniques to conserve water while keeping the campus environment vibrant and welcoming.

Selection of Drought-Tolerant and Native Plants

UniMAP’s landscaping strategy includes plant species that thrive in local climatic conditions and require minimal watering. Among the selected species are:

  • Hamelia patens (Fire Bush)
  • Pachystachys lutea (Golden Shrimp Plant)
  • Lantana camara (Bunga Tahi Ayam)
  • Leucophyllum frutescens (Texas Sage)
  • Heptapleurum actinophyllum (Schefflera)

These species not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the campus but also contribute to significant water conservation and improved ecosystem resilience.

Efficient Watering and Maintenance Practices

UniMAP implements several water-efficient practices in its landscaping management, including:

  • Early Morning Watering: Conducted during cooler hours to minimize evaporation losses and allow plants to absorb water more effectively. This also helps prevent fungal diseases that occur when foliage remains wet overnight.
  • Mulching: Application of organic mulch around plants to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and reduce weed growth.
  • Drip Irrigation System: A targeted watering method that delivers water directly to the plant roots, minimizing wastage.
  • Use of Native Plants: Incorporating species that are naturally adapted to the local environment, reducing the need for excessive watering and maintenance.

Sustainable Impact

These water-conscious planting efforts not only reduce overall water consumption but also enhance campus biodiversity, soil health, and resilience to drought.

By combining ecological awareness with efficient irrigation, UniMAP ensures that its landscapes remain vibrant, sustainable, and environmentally responsible.

Through the implementation of water-efficient landscaping practices, UniMAP continues to strengthen its commitment to SDG Target 6.3, which focuses on improving water quality, reducing wastage, and promoting sustainable resource management.

This initiative serves as a model for eco-conscious campus design and demonstrates UniMAP’s leadership in integrating sustainability into every aspect of its operations.
(More info: Water-conscious planting 2024)