University campuses as town-like institutions: promoting sustainable development in cities using the water-sensitive urban design approach

Abstract

Rapid population growth and urbanization of countries’ landscapes are putting pressure on both natural and man-made environments. Coupled with climate change, population growth and urbanization are pressuring cities’ infrastructure and carrying capacity. Cities are facing several challenges to achieve sustainable development, including the promotion of public health, transportation, sanitation, water supply, energy supply, and employment. Particularly in developing countries, cities are facing several challenges regarding water management (floods, water shortages, waste of water, and sanitation), thus requiring effective approaches to promote sustainable water management. One such approach is the Water-sensitive urban design (WSUD), the focus of this study. The aim of this study is to understand how the WSUD approach can promote sustainability in urban areas and increase cities’ resiliency to climate change. This study presents the WSUD approach and its practices, also presenting the approach into a university as a case study. The literature indicates that governments and social agents like universities must invest in new approaches to promote sustainable development in cities, such as the WSUD to improve water management and avoid potential crises. Therefore, as complex institutions, university campuses provide a perfect environment for innovation, experimentation, and learning, serving as role models for their city and surrounding communities.