UAE-based Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU) has been given the Conservation Award for a Better Tomorrow 2014-2015 in recognition of its efforts to promote a culture of responsible consumption and for its support of Dubai Plan 2021 vision to build a sustainable city.

The university won the award in the ‘Facility Management’ category at an event organised by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) in co-operation with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority at the Grand Hyatt Dubai Hotel.

The award was aimed at acknowledging the leading efforts in implementing sustainable best practices in the emirate.

HBMSU came in first place in the ‘Facility Management’ category, which is attributed to the positive results that the university has achieved - driving in a reduction of 53,262 kWh in electricity consumption while also saving 445,786 gallons in water consumption, which reflects a decrease of 35 per cent.

The university’s other efforts and initiatives in the past period include the launch of ‘Sehati’ in collaboration with Dewa, which was an initiative that aimed at raising environmental awareness, introduction of an advanced sprinkle irrigation system, provision of 24/7 technician services across the campus and encouraging the use of water-friendly car wash services.

HBMSU also conducts dedicated workshops for the academic community on water and energy consumption.

Dr Mansoor Al Awar, HBMSU chancellor, said the award serves as a great addition to the university’s record in adopting the latest innovative concepts and international best practices which are poised to drive sustainable development and secure a better future for the coming generations.

“The good governance of energy sources is gaining more importance as a major catalyst to face the emerging environmental challenges in light of the rapidly growing cultural and comprehensive development,” he added.-TradeArabia News Service