[column 12]In September 2015, at the United Nations General Assembly, several countries around the world adhered to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). World leaders pledged to eradicate poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity. "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Iași has responsibly integrated all these objectives into its development plans. Two of these goals have become priorities for UMF Iași: SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy, and SDG 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production, aiming to fulfill one of its major aspirations: becoming a sustainable, "green" university.
Sustainable development as part of the universities' social responsibility.
The 1987 Brundtland Report by the World Commission on Environment and Development, titled "Our Common Future", defined sustainable development as "meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs." Concern for the planet's future has been a constant in the international academic environment. In 1990, during a conference in France, the concept of a "sustainable university" was detailed. Over 265 rectors and vice-rectors from universities in over 40 countries signed an action plan for integrating sustainability and environmental awareness into teaching and research, known as the "Talloires Declaration". The declaration states, "Universities educate most of the individuals who develop and manage society's institutions. For this reason, universities bear an immense responsibility to increase awareness, knowledge, technologies, and the tools necessary to create an environmentally sustainable future". By 2023, this declaration had been signed by 500 universities from over 50 countries.
To pave the way for an "environmentally sustainable future", the "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Iași has intensified its efforts to reduce its ecological footprint and to use resources economically. Recently, successful strategies have been implemented to reduce energy consumption, including the use of renewable energy sources. For example, solar panels have been installed in the E1 and C9 dormitories of the University, providing hot water for seven months each year, from April to October. Additionally, a photovoltaic system, consisting of 170 panels, was installed on the roof of the E5 dormitory to reduce electricity consumption from the distribution network.
Waste management is achieved through contracts with two specialized collection, neutralization, and disposal companies: one for household waste, paper, cardboard, and plastic, and the other for toxic, biological, chemical, sharp and cutting waste, as well as used oil waste from the university's canteen.
Another significant waste management activity is the recycling of electronic waste (e-waste), which has been undertaken by UMF Iași since 2009. Just last year, the University managed to collect and recycle 2.2 tons of electronic and electrical equipment waste.
Annually, 120 billion dollars could be saved if the world's population used only energy-saving bulbs. For affordable and clean energy, in a safe, sustainable, and modern manner, the University has replaced conventional bulbs with energy-saving LED bulbs. Additionally, thanks to the architecture of the main building of the University - the Calimachi Palace, one of the most imposing and oldest buildings in Iași, with thick walls and large windows, there is a savings both during the warm season – using air conditioning units less, and in heating during the cold period.
Partnerships with other institutions
Over time, the University has entered into partnerships with state institutions and non-governmental organizations to develop practical and sustainable solutions for environmental protection. For instance, it actively participated in the "Green Friday" campaign initiated by the Ministry of Environment, Waters and Forests, with the support of Iași City Hall, and in the campaign for the safe and responsible disposal of expired medicines, initiated by the Iași Pharmacists' College and Iași City Hall.
Education and Awareness
UMF Iași plans to organize events, workshops, and awareness campaigns in the near future to involve students and staff in sustainable practices. Furthermore, the curriculum reform undertaken by the UMF Iași management will integrate sustainability content into study programs and extracurricular activities.
Currently, fourth-year students of the Faculty of Pharmacy have a course called "Environmental and Food Chemistry" in their curriculum. Among the topics covered in this course are:
- Water pollution;
- Wastewater; classification of wastewater; collection and transport of wastewater; wastewater purification; disposal of residual effluents;
- Atmospheric air pollution;
- Factors conditioning air pollution and self-purification; Measures to prevent and combat air pollution;
- Soil pollution; Chemical soil pollution indicators;
- Food quality and safety: nutritional aspects, hygienic properties and harmlessness; legislative aspects;
- Food sanitation and food-borne illnesses.
Also, the Faculty of Pharmacy will submit a project titled "Today's Student, Tomorrow's Professional! - Developing practical skills of students in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic field" under the Education and Occupation Program (PEO) 2021 – 2027. Among the activities proposed in the project are:
- Developing entrepreneurial skills, to adapt skills and qualifications related to the environment and sustainable development;
- The creation of a biochemistry, cosmetics, and environmental laboratory;
- Study visits and internships for students.
Outlook for the future
UMF Iași is continuously looking to improve its sustainability practices. In addition to these accomplishments, the University has recently applied for European funds in order to finance the rehabilitation and thermal insulation of the "St. Spiridon" Emergency Clinical Hospital. This project is in line with UMF Iași's commitment to SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy. The University is also actively seeking partnerships with other universities, both locally and internationally, to share best practices and work collaboratively on sustainable solutions.
In conclusion, UMF Iași's commitment to sustainability is clearly evident in its endeavors to adopt energy-efficient practices, reduce waste, and promote environmental awareness among its students and staff. As the University continues to take strides toward becoming a sustainable institution, it remains a beacon of hope and a role model for other institutions looking to make a positive impact on the environment and society. [/column]