SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

At Ulster University, students explore SDG 6 through teaching that emphasises water sustainability, sanitation, and equitable access, preparing them to tackle global and local water challenges.

Undergraduate Courses

• BEng/MEng (Hons) Civil Engineering
• BSc (Hons) Environmental Science

Postgraduate Courses

• MSc Civil and Infrastructure Engineering

Our research tackles the root causes of water and sanitation challenges both locally and globally, working in partnership with communities, organisations, and policymakers to enable sustainable and equitable water management.

Research Stories

• Charting water quality improvements and practice reversion with pesticide interventions at catchment scale
• Tackling Antimicrobial Resistance: A Sustainable Method for the Removal of Antibiotics from Water
• A paired-catchment evaluation of voluntary agri-environmental scheme measures targeting diffuse phosphorus and sediment pollution

Through strong local and global partnerships, we work with communities, organisations, and policymakers to advance sustainable water and sanitation solutions.

Partnership Stories

• £6 million research project will pioneer safe water solutions for the developing world
• Ulster University tackles global water challenge with easy-to-use smart devices
• Ulster University launches research centre to address the global challenge of safe drinking water

Campus Water Efficiency

Ulster University actively monitors and reduces water consumption across its campuses through water-efficient installations, leak detection surveys, and the promotion of water-saving behaviours among staff and students. Water use is reported annually through the Annual Sustainability Report and the HESA Estates Management Record, demonstrating transparency and accountability.

Rainwater Harvesting System

A large rainwater harvesting system at Ulster University's Belfast campus collects rainwater from the roof for use in toilet facilities, reducing reliance on mains water. This system displaces approximately 2,000m³ of non-potable imported water annually, supporting the University’s commitment to sustainable water management.

Well-Water Boreholes

Two well-water boreholes excavated at the Ulster University Sports Village campus provide a sustainable water source for sports pitch irrigation and non-potable use within the sports centre, saving approximately 5,000m³ of imported mains water annually.

Hydration Stations

Hydration Stations are installed across all Ulster University campuses to encourage bottle refills, promoting free access to healthy hydration habits while reducing the use of single-use plastic bottles.