Policy on Preventing and Reducing Marine Pollution from Land-Based Activities

University of Mosul

1. Title

University of Mosul Policy on Preventing and Reducing Marine Pollution from Land-Based Activities

2. Purpose / Objective

The University of Mosul is committed to fulfilling its environmental and social role by preventing and mitigating marine pollution, recognizing the serious impact that unregulated land-based activities can have on aquatic ecosystems. The purpose of this policy is to safeguard rivers, lakes, and water bodies from pollution, protect biodiversity, and preserve natural resources for future generations.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all university facilities, including buildings, laboratories, and open areas, as well as to educational, administrative, and research activities that may generate waste or discharges with potential direct or indirect impacts on aquatic environments.

4. Principles / Commitments

• Full commitment to protecting aquatic environments from pollution caused by university land-based activities.

• Adoption of sustainable waste management and encouragement of practices that minimize environmental risks.

• Reducing the use of water-harmful substances, particularly single-use plastics and high-risk chemicals.

• Ensuring wastewater is treated in line with national and international standards prior to discharge.

• Promoting a culture of shared responsibility among all university members for protecting the environment.

5. Procedures / Implementation Mechanisms

• Waste Management: providing waste separation bins across all university facilities and ensuring safe disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous waste.

• Sustainable Materials: minimizing reliance on plastics and non-biodegradable items while encouraging eco-friendly alternatives.

• Wastewater Treatment: connecting university networks to certified treatment plants and cooperating with local authorities to ensure compliance.

• Field Monitoring: conducting regular environmental audits to identify practices that may contribute to aquatic pollution.

• Rapid Response: establishing clear emergency plans to address any potential pollution incidents or leaks.

6. Responsibilities

• The University Presidency holds the highest responsibility for approving this policy and providing the necessary resources for its implementation.

• The Office of Sustainability and Environment oversees direct implementation and coordinates with governmental and environmental authorities.

• Academic and administrative units ensure daily compliance with the policy within their scope of operations.

• All students and staff are required to cooperate in implementing the guidelines and reporting any violations.

7. Monitoring and Evaluation

• Preparing regular reports that outline compliance levels and strategies adopted to reduce marine pollution.

• Conducting semi-annual environmental reviews to evaluate performance and identify improvement opportunities.

• Publishing transparent summaries for the university community and local society to raise awareness of outcomes.

8. Periodic Review

This policy will be reviewed every three years, or in response to significant legislative or environmental changes, and updated to align with the latest global best practices in aquatic environmental protection.

9. Link to Global Goals

This policy directly contributes to:

• Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, by ensuring wastewater treatment and safe waste disposal.

• Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, by reducing pollutants and encouraging sustainable alternatives.

• Goal 14: Life Below Water, by protecting seas, rivers, and water bodies from land-based pollution.

• Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals, through collaboration with environmental agencies and local communities.

Approved by: Presidency of the University of Mosul.

Last updated: 24-12-2024.