In Fiscal Year 2021-2022, FIU used 865,851 cubic meters of treated/extracted water for consumption, sanitation and university operations to support a total population of 76,684 students, faculty and staff.
Water Extraction and Measurements
Domestic water is supplied by Miami-Dade County Water and Sewer Department which uses Sustainable Water Extraction Technologies that are safe and compatible with natural ecosystems. The county's techniques comply with the land-use and environmental protection policies of the Miami-Dade County Comprehensive Development Master Plan, the Strategic Regional Policy Plan for South Florida, and the State Comprehensive Plan. Learn more about Miami-Dade County Sustainable Water Extraction Techniques
For measurements, Miami-Dade County utilizes a metering system. Irrigation water from campus lakes is measured through flow meters. More information and measurements are available online in FIU's AASHE STARS report.
Wastewater
Wastewater from campus operations is discharged to Miami-Dade County’s South District Wastewater Treatment Plant. Miami-Dade County’s wastewater management practices include the use of reclaimed water to help preserve the Biscayne Aquifer. The county is currently performing a reclaimed water feasibility study in addition to continued implementation of existing reuse projects and commitments to expand its water reuse program. More information is available online in FIU's AASHE STARS report.
FIU's Environmental Management Policy requires the university community to comply with all environmental laws and regulations, including those related to wastewater. Read the FIU policy.
Environmental Regulations
Florida International University requires all employees to comply with all federal, state and local laws and regulations including those related to water usage and care.
Prevent and Protect
Florida International University's Department of Environmental Health and Safety has established processes and protocols to ensure university operations do not pollute local water systems. FIU also maintains a water conservation program.
Below are key FIU initiatives to protect our local environment and natural resources.
Environmental Management
FIU's Department of Environmental Health and Safety is charged with ensuring university compliance with regulations, statutes, guidance and best management practices for environmental protection. The university’s current Environmental Management Policy was first implemented in 2006 and most recently updated in 2021.
As a campus community, FIU works to minimize negative impacts on the environment and contribute to the restoration, reuse and recycling of resources. This includes minimizing wastewater and ensuring all waste is disposed of in accordance with regulatory and university requirements, as outlined on page 4 of the FIU Environmental Management Policy. FIU maintains a zero tolerance policy for illicit discharge within the university.
Our commitment is to prevent pollution of all kinds, whether working on campus, in the community, on the water or in the water.
FIU Environmental Management Policy
Hazardous Waste Management
Researchers, lab managers and supporting lab staff are provided training to maintain a safe work environment that protects people and the environment. A team of skilled professionals from FIU’s Department of Environmental Health and Safety provide guidance and oversight on the proper disposal of hazardous materials, research proposal safety reviews, hazard assessments, lab equipment certifications, development of specific laboratory safety programs, new lab walkthroughs/consultations and special hazard materials/equipment approvals.
FIU Hazardous Waste Management Plan
Minimizing Water Use
A water conservation program is included in the university’s Campus Master Plan, featuring an educational campaign for the university community, new construction requirements for high efficiency and a leak detection program, among other water conservation initiatives. Visit the section below on New Building Standards to learn how FIU is designing buildings to minimize water use.