Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

Approximately 45–50 percent of the SDG 6 publications were open access, ensuring that findings on water and sanitation technologies are freely accessible to practitioners, policymakers, and local communities. Overall, the period 2020–2024 reflects CSU’s strategic alignment of research with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing innovations that address water security and sanitation challenges in the Caraga Region and beyond. The consistent number of SDG 6-related outputs and the presence of several highly cited papers highlight CSU’s commitment to producing globally relevant, locally responsive research. The university’s performance positions it as an emerging hub for innovation in water resource management, pollution control, and sustainable sanitation technologies, contributing to the fulfillment of SDG 6 and the broader UN 2030 Agenda.

Link: Number of Publications

6.2 Water consumption per person

6.2.1 Water consumption tracking

Campus Water Supply and Monitoring System

Caraga State University (CSU) operates a centralized water supply system, ensuring reliable access to clean water across its academic, residential, and administrative facilities. The system utilizes a mechanical power pump that extracts groundwater daily to meet the campus’s total water requirements. The pumped water is stored in a cylindrical tank measuring 10 meters in height and 5 meters in radius, with a storage capacity of approximately 785 cubic meters.

From this storage tank, water is distributed through an extensive underground piping network that has served the campus for about two decades. The General Services Office (GSO) regularly oversees system maintenance, monitors pump performance, and tracks estimated discharge volumes to effectively manage water consumption.

Based on daily pumping operations, CSU’s estimated annual water volume reaches about 286,000 cubic meters under full operation. Accounting for periods of low attendance, holidays, and class suspensions, the adjusted annual consumption is approximately 258,000 cubic meters. These figures are based on pump activity logs and regular system inspections, which serve as the university’s baseline data for tracking consumption and planning efficiency.

Through consistent monitoring and maintenance, CSU demonstrates its commitment to sustainable water management, conservation, and accountability. This initiative supports SDG 6.2.1 (Water Consumption Tracking) by ensuring the responsible use of groundwater resources while sustaining the needs of its academic community.

Link: Water tank plan,

6.2.2 Water consumption per person

Annual Water Use Relative to Student Enrollment

Caraga State University (CSU) maintains an operational groundwater supply system that provides potable water across all campus facilities through a centralized pumping and distribution network. Based on system monitoring records, the university’s estimated annual water consumption is approximately 258,000 cubic meters.

For the Academic Year 2023–2024, CSU recorded a total student enrollment of 24,837, distributed across three academic periods:

Using these enrollment figures, the university’s average annual water consumption per student is approximately:

This translates to roughly 10,400 liters of water per student annually, or an average of 28 liters per student per day (based on a 365-day estimate).

These figures provide a measurable indicator of CSU’s water use efficiency and serve as a baseline for future conservation strategies. The Physical Plant and Facilities Management Office (PPFMO) tracks consumption through pump operation logs and maintenance reports, enabling the university to identify opportunities for improved water management and reduced wastage.

By correlating total water use with enrollment data, CSU demonstrates its commitment to transparent water consumption tracking, sustainable resource allocation, and alignment with SDG 6.2.2 – Water Consumption per Person. This data-driven approach supports institutional decision-making for water conservation, infrastructure planning, and environmental stewardship.

6.3 Water usage and care

6.3.1 Wastewater treatment

Although detailed publicly available data on wastewater treatment infrastructure at Caraga State University (CSU) is limited, the university actively coordinates with local government and environmental agencies in managing water quality and wastewater concerns within and around its campus. In partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Ampayon and the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), CSU has adopted an estero project within its premises through the Adopt-an-Estero/Water Body Program.

Spearheaded by the Pollution Control and Environmental Management Office (PCEMO), this initiative demonstrates CSU’s sustained commitment to environmental conservation and responsible wastewater management. Launched in celebration of Earth Day 2024 on April 22, the program aims to preserve and rehabilitate the Ampayon Creek, a vital waterway adjacent to the university.

Through this partnership, CSU promotes environmental awareness among students, faculty, and nearby communities, fostering shared responsibility in maintaining clean and sustainable waterways. The activity was led by PCEMO Head Vincent N. Cotoron, MSCM, with the participation of Head Executive Assistant EnP Carlo D. Dacera (representing DENR-EMB), Environment Committee Head Hon. Gerald Gozon of Barangay Ampayon, and the university’s top officials — University President Dr. Rolyn C. Daguil, Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Alexander T. Demetillo, and Vice President for Executive Operations Dr. Jeffrey T. Dellosa.

This initiative reinforces CSU’s role in advancing community-based water quality management, pollution prevention, and sustainable wastewater practices through collaboration, education, and environmental stewardship.

Figure 1. Launching of the Adopt-an-Estero/Water Body Program on Ampayon Creek. Source: CSU Pollution Control and Environmental Management Office (PCEMO) / Public Information and Communication Office (PICO)

6.3 Water usage and care

6.3.1 Wastewater treatment

Although detailed publicly available data on wastewater treatment infrastructure at Caraga State University (CSU) is limited, the university actively coordinates with local government and environmental agencies in managing water quality and wastewater concerns within and around its campus. In partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Ampayon and the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), CSU has adopted an estero project within its premises through the Adopt-an-Estero/Water Body Program.

Spearheaded by the Pollution Control and Environmental Management Office (PCEMO), this initiative demonstrates CSU’s sustained commitment to environmental conservation and responsible wastewater management. Launched in celebration of Earth Day 2024 on April 22, the program aims to preserve and rehabilitate the Ampayon Creek, a vital waterway adjacent to the university.

Through this partnership, CSU promotes environmental awareness among students, faculty, and nearby communities, fostering shared responsibility in maintaining clean and sustainable waterways. The activity was led by PCEMO Head Vincent N. Cotoron, MSCM, with the participation of Head Executive Assistant EnP Carlo D. Dacera (representing DENR-EMB), Environment Committee Head Hon. Gerald Gozon of Barangay Ampayon, and the university’s top officials — University President Dr. Rolyn C. Daguil, Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Alexander T. Demetillo, and Vice President for Executive Operations Dr. Jeffrey T. Dellosa.

This initiative reinforces CSU’s role in advancing community-based water quality management, pollution prevention, and sustainable wastewater practices through collaboration, education, and environmental stewardship.

Figure 1. Launching of the Adopt-an-Estero/Water Body Program on Ampayon Creek. Source: CSU Pollution Control and Environmental Management Office (PCEMO) / Public Information and Communication Office (PICO)

6.3.2 Preventing water system pollution

Partnership for the Protection and Rehabilitation of Ampayon Creek

Caraga State University (CSU) continues to strengthen its commitment to environmental protection and pollution prevention through active partnerships with national and local agencies. On November 29, during the Adopt-an-Estero/Water Body Summit in Butuan City, CSU formalized its collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Ampayon for the long-term conservation and rehabilitation of the Ampayon Creek, a vital waterway that traverses the university campus and flows into the Agusan River.

The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), signed by CSU President Dr. Rolyn C. Daguil and DENR-EMB OIC–Regional Director Engr. Dennis O. Celestial, MM, outlines joint environmental interventions designed to prevent the pollution and ecological degradation of the water system. The agreement highlights the development and implementation of a comprehensive action plan focused on reducing siltation, solid waste accumulation, and effluent discharge that threaten the creek’s ecological integrity.

Key interventions under the partnership include:

• Construction of engineered wetlands to improve natural water filtration and reduce contaminant loads before they reach downstream water bodies;
• Riparian rehabilitation and bamboo planting along riverbanks to stabilize soils, enhance nutrient retention, and provide biological filtration against pollutants;
• Regular cleanup and monitoring programs to remove debris, manage waste disposal practices, and assess water quality parameters; and
• Community engagement and environmental education initiatives aimed at promoting behavioral change and enhancing stakeholder participation in maintaining waterway health.

The partnership is jointly coordinated by CSU’s Pollution Control and Environmental Management Office (PCEMO), led by Mr. Vincent N. Cotoron, MSc, in close collaboration with the DENR-EMB and the Barangay Ampayon Environment Committee. Through these proactive measures, CSU contributes to the prevention of water system pollution and supports the sustainable management of urban waterways connected to the Agusan River Basin.

This initiative exemplifies CSU’s integrated approach to safeguarding water resources, combining infrastructure development, ecological restoration, and community-based management. It reinforces the university’s commitment to United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6.3, which aims to improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping, and minimizing the release of hazardous materials into the environment.

Source: CSU Pollution Control and Environmental Management Office (PCEMO) / DENR – Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) / Barangay LGU-Ampayon: Adopt an Estero Project and MOA with EMB.

6.3.3 Free drinking water provided

University-Wide Free Potable Water Access Initiative

In support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), Caraga State University (CSU) continues to advance initiatives that promote safe, accessible, and sustainable water consumption within the campus community. To ensure the health and well-being of students, faculty, and staff, the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Auxiliary Services (VPSAAS) has installed ten (10) automatic water dispensing machines across key university locations.

These units are strategically placed in major college halls, student centers, and high-traffic areas to provide free access to clean, potable drinking water for all members of the CSU community—collectively known as the Golden Paddlers. The initiative directly addresses the need for hydration and wellness, particularly in a tropical learning environment where safe drinking water is essential to both academic performance and campus life.

The project, launched during the 2022–2023 school year, was a collaborative effort among the University Student Government (USG), Local Student Governments (LSG), League of Campus Organizations (LCO), and the Graduating Classes, with administrative support from VPSAAS. This student-led and administration-supported partnership reflects CSU’s strong culture of participatory governance and its commitment to sustainable campus development.

By providing free and readily available drinking water, CSU not only reduces the reliance on single-use plastic bottles but also strengthens its efforts in promoting environmental responsibility, public health, and inclusivity. This initiative exemplifies the university’s proactive approach to ensuring that access to safe water remains a fundamental right and shared resource for all members of its academic community.

Source: Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Auxiliary Services (VPSAAS) / University Student Government (USG) Free Automatic Water Machines

6.3.4 Water-conscious building standards

To be updated…

6.3.5 Water-conscious planting

World Environment Day 2025 Celebration and Waterway Conservation Efforts

As a Green University committed to responsible environmental stewardship, Caraga State University continues to lead transformative initiatives that promote clean water, sanitation, and ecosystem restoration. In celebration of World Environment Day (WED) on June 5, 2025, CSU organized a series of university-wide activities engaging students, faculty, administrative personnel, and partner communities under the global theme “Our Land. Our Future. We are #GenerationRestoration.”

The day began with a tree-planting activity by graduating students at Barangay Basag, held at dawn to symbolize a renewed commitment to a greener and more sustainable future. This activity contributed to local reforestation and watershed rehabilitation efforts that enhance water retention, prevent soil erosion, and maintain clean water sources in surrounding ecosystems.

Simultaneously, university personnel actively participated in a campus-wide “Do-Day” and Adopt-an-Estero Cleanup Drive, reflecting CSU’s collaborative engagement with Barangay Ampayon and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB). These initiatives are part of the Adopt-an-Estero/Water Body Program, which aims to restore and sustainably manage the Ampayon Creek, a vital tributary influencing the hydrology and water quality of the surrounding area. Regular cleanup activities under this program help mitigate pollution, improve drainage systems, and prevent the discharge of solid waste and effluent into waterways.

In the afternoon, CSU held a Stakeholders’ Consultation on the Formulation of the “No Single-Use Plastic Policy” at the University Conference Hall. This policy initiative aims to reduce plastic consumption and pollution within the university, in line with the global WED call for collective action against plastic waste. The consultation gathered inputs from academic leaders, student representatives, local government officials, and environmental advocates to ensure a participatory approach to policy design and implementation.

Through these integrated actions—tree planting, creek rehabilitation, and plastic waste reduction—Caraga State University demonstrates its holistic approach to sustainable water management and environmental protection. These programs strengthen CSU’s alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly:

• SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – by promoting water quality, pollution prevention, and sustainable wastewater management;
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – through community-based environmental engagement;
• SDG 13: Climate Action – by fostering resilience through restoration and reforestation;
• SDG 14: Life Below Water and SDG 15: Life on Land – by protecting aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems from pollution and degradation.

Caraga State University’s continued participation in WED and related environmental initiatives exemplifies its institutional commitment to ecological restoration, clean water advocacy, and community-driven sustainability, advancing both academic excellence and environmental responsibility.

Source: CSU Pollution Control and Environmental Management Office (PCEMO) / Public Information and Communication Office (PICO)

Carbon Sink Enhancing Program

June 19, 2024 – The Pollution Control and Environmental Management Office (PCEMO) of the university successfully launched the University Carbon Sink Enhancement Program, marked by the planting of 2,532 native trees at the Basag and Antongalon boundaries of the university. This initiative pushes to uplift our Golden Paddlers’ commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.

A total of 750 Sagimsim, 792 Lanutan, 78 Lipote, 463 Pipi, and 449 Kalantas trees were collectively planted by the graduating Sanghaya Class of 2024, postgraduate students, CEAS members, and NSRC volunteers. This effort aligns with several key legislative frameworks and mandates, including Executive Order No. 26 (National Greening Program), Republic Act No. 10176 (Arbor Day Act), and Republic Act No. 9729 (Climate Change Act). Additionally, it meets the Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) conditions, which require tree planting to mitigate vegetation loss and bolster reforestation efforts. The program also adheres to CHED Caraga Memorandum Orders No. 38 and No. 68, Series of 2022, as part of the “Growing One Million Trees Advocacy Program,” involving the graduating students, NSTP, CES, and OSAS in all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) within the Caraga Region.

Source: Carbon Sink Enhancement Program

6.4 Water reuse

6.4.1 Water reuse policy

6.4.2 Water reuse measurement

6.5 Water in the community

6.5.1 Water management educational opportunities

6.5.3 Off-campus water conservation support

CHED Fieldtrip Approval

6.5.4 Sustainable water extraction on campus

Responsible Ground-and Surface-Water Withdrawal at CSU

Caraga State University recognises that sustainable water abstraction is critical to maintaining healthy hydrological systems and supporting long-term ecosystem services within its campus and the surrounding locality. As part of its institutional sustainability agenda under the LIKHA policy framework, CSU has implemented measures to ensure its water extraction from the campus watershed is managed responsibly, monitored diligently, and aligned with broader environmental objectives.

Key features of the university’s approach include:

• Assessment and baseline monitoring of water resources: CSU works through its Pollution Control and Environmental Management Office (PCEMO) and facility management teams to review water withdrawal points (both surface and groundwater) associated with its campus operations. This includes quantifying current use, tracking extraction volumes, and identifying seasonal variability.
• Integration of water savings and reuse infrastructure: To reduce overall extraction pressure, CSU has installed efficient plumbing and metering systems, and encourages the reuse of non-potable water (e.g., for irrigation, flushing) wherever feasible. These initiatives lower the extraction of fresh supplies by substituting alternative sources and promoting conservation.
• Extraction limits and stakeholder coordination: CSU’s facility management sets operational thresholds on campus withdrawals in coordination with the local water-service utilities and the LGU of Ampayon, ensuring that campus extraction remains within sustainable yield limits and does not adversely affect the downstream catchment, including the associated waterway of Ampayon Creek.
• Ecosystem-sensitive withdrawal planning: Recognising the connectivity of its campus hydrology to the broader basin, CSU incorporates riparian buffer zones, infrastructural setbacks, and prioritises extraction points that minimise ecological disruption. It leverages its Adopt-an-Estero/Water Body programme as a complementary measure to support watershed health.
• Public reporting and continuous improvement: CSU commits to documenting extraction volumes, water-use efficiency gains, and ongoing improvement targets. This transparency supports accountability and positions the university as a model for sustainable campus water management in the Caraga Region.

By implementing these measures, Caraga State University ensures its campus water extraction aligns with the principles of sustainability, non-degradation of hydrological resources, and respect for local ecological carrying capacities. This contributes directly to SDG 6.5—“implement integrated water resources management at all levels”—by demonstrating institutional governance of water withdrawal within the campus boundaries and its interconnected watershed.

Link: Water Distribution Schedule

6.5.5 Cooperation on water security

Collaborative Research on Water Resource Assessment and Modeling in the Caraga Region

In pursuit of sustainable and science-based water management, Caraga State University (CSU) formalized a tripartite Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Butuan City Water District (BCWD) and the Taguibo Aquatech Solutions Corporation (TASC) to jointly implement the research project titled “Water Resource Assessment and Modeling of the Selected Watershed in Caraga Region for Sustainable Domestic and Irrigation Water Supply.” This partnership reflects CSU’s continuing commitment to promote cooperation on water security through applied research, knowledge sharing, and stakeholder engagement.

The collaboration leverages CSU’s academic and technical expertise through its Center for Resource Assessment, Analytics and Emerging Technologies (CREATE) and the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (DABE) of the College of Engineering and Geosciences. The university is tasked with conducting hydrological modeling, data analysis, and simulation studies to estimate monthly and annual water availability and sediment yield within the identified watershed. The project aims to support evidence-based decisions for water distribution, conservation, and resource sustainability.

Meanwhile, BCWD, as the government-owned water utility, and TASC, as a private partner engaged in water supply and treatment services, commit to providing technical, logistical, and data support. These include the collection and laboratory analysis of daily water samples, monitoring of discharge and sediment levels, and sharing of operational data essential for model calibration and validation. The study’s results will inform improvements in water resource allocation, pollution control, and infrastructure planning for sustainable domestic and irrigation water supplies.

Through this cooperative research, CSU, BCWD, and TASC exemplify a multi-sectoral approach to water security, bridging the academe, government, and industry sectors. The partnership fosters innovation in local water resource assessment and ensures that scientific outputs are translated into practical solutions for the Taguibo Watershed and other priority catchments in the Caraga Region.

This initiative underscores CSU’s leadership in promoting integrated water resource management (IWRM) and aligns with SDG 6.5, which calls for enhanced cooperation and capacity-building to protect and sustain water systems at all levels.

Link: MOA with Butuan City Water District and Taguibo Aquatech Solutions Corporation

6.5.6 Promoting conscious water usage on campus

6.5.7 Promoting conscious water usage in the wider community

Webinar on Clean Water Act and Environmental Awareness

As part of its continuing advocacy for environmental sustainability and responsible water resource management, Caraga State University (CSU) conducted a webinar titled “Clear Skies, Healthy Ties” on December 5, 2024. This initiative, organized through the Pollution Control and Environmental Management Office (PCEMO), aimed to promote conscious water usage and pollution prevention practices among students, faculty, and partner communities.

The session featured Forester Christian D. Polenio, Technical Staff of PCEMO, who served as the resource speaker and discussed the provisions, implementation, and local relevance of the Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004 (Republic Act 9275). His presentation emphasized the importance of maintaining water quality, controlling pollution sources, and ensuring community participation in water conservation efforts.

The webinar provided practical insights into sustainable water management, highlighting how individuals and institutions can reduce water waste, properly manage wastewater, and protect freshwater ecosystems. Participants were encouraged to adopt environmentally responsible behaviors, such as efficient water use, waste segregation, and participation in cleanup and reforestation activities, which help safeguard watersheds and riparian areas.

Through this educational initiative, CSU strengthened its role as an environmental learning hub in the Caraga Region—fostering awareness, accountability, and action for sustainable water stewardship beyond the university campus. The activity aligns with the university’s mandate to extend environmental education to the wider community and supports SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) by advancing knowledge on the protection and sustainable use of water resources.

Source: Environmental Science – N1 & F1: Clear Skies, Healthy Ties