Tackling Irrigation Challenges in 2024
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This year, UWC Dilijan made a big step forward in sustainable water use, solving a problem that’s been on our minds for years: campus irrigation. The original plan had been to use river water for the college’s irrigation system, but this came with unexpected challenges. The river water was loaded with sand, which our filtration system couldn’t handle. Without proper filtration, the sprinklers clogged up and stopped working, forcing us to use drinking water to keep our grounds green—a temporary fix that wasn’t ideal for the long run.
To address this, our sustainability team did some research, looking for a reliable water source that wouldn’t strain our resources. After some digging, both literally and figuratively, we discovered four underground water sources on campus that seemed promising. With this new solution in mind, we reached out to Armenia’s Ministry of Environment for permission to tap into these sources. Once we got the green light, we did all the necessary calculations, ordered a technical design, and set the plan in motion.
Construction of our new water collection system ended in May 2024, and now we’re able to gather about 70,000 liters of water every day just for irrigation. No more drinking water used for sprinklers, our landscaping needs are covered sustainably. This project has allowed us to prioritize both environmental responsibility and community needs, reserving potable water for its intended purpose.
The new irrigation system doesn’t just help UWC Dilijan stay green; it represents a commitment to sustainable resource use and serves as a great example of the college’s role in making eco-friendly choices. This solution has made us more self-sufficient, resource-conscious, and ready for future projects that contribute to a more sustainable campus.
