Sustainability Pillar III

At Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), we are committed to fostering a sustainable, eco-friendly campus in line with the Brunei Green Protocol. Our initiatives focus on reducing our carbon footprint through energy-efficient technologies, sustainable building practices, and the creation of green spaces that enhance biodiversity. In addition, we prioritise the health and wellness of our campus community by promoting active lifestyles, and access to green areas for physical and mental well-being. These efforts reflect UBD’s dedication to environmental sustainability, support the holistic health of our students and staff, and contribute to global actions in addressing climate change, leading towards a greener and healthier future for all.

Energy Efficient Campus

UBD is making significant strides towards a more energy-efficient lighting in line with the Green Mark Certification Guideline on Lighting Power Budget (LPB).We are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also optimizing energy consumption across the university. The shift to LED lighting, with its long lifespan, is helping to minimise the need for frequent replacements, reducing both maintenance requirements and waste. This initiative is designed to create a more sustainable campus while enhancing the overall campus experience – providing improved visual comfort and fostering a productive learning and working environment.

Green spaces and landscaping (include photos)

UBD boasts expansive green spaces that are thoughtfully designed to promote biodiversity and serve as thriving natural habitats for local flora and fauna. These areas create an ecosystem that supports a wide variety of plant and animal species, some of which are native and unique to Brunei. By preserving and enhancing these green spaces, UBD not only enriches the natural landscape but also contributes to the conservation of local biodiversity.

UBD’s open and green spaces are accessible to the public, offering a welcoming environment for outdoor activities, relaxation, and community engagement. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy these spaces throughout the day, with the main security control post closing at 10 p.m. for security purposes. We kindly ask that all guests adhere to campus guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

(Photos and linked to https://brc.iber.ubd.edu.bn/)

At the heart of the UBD campus lies the UBD Botanical Research Centre (BRC), covering a 6-hectare area of rare tropical lowland heath forest, locally known as “Kerangas forest.” This unique ecosystem supports high conservation value species, including Agathis borneensis (Tulong) and Gymnostoma nobile, which are key indicators of undisturbed Kerangas forests. Recognised as the first botanic garden in Brunei Darussalam, the UBD BRC focuses on research, education, and the conservation of Brunei’s hyperdiverse flora. Government and non-government agencies regularly engage experts from the UBD Botanical Research Centre (BRC) to provide professional expertise on plant relocation and conservation efforts, supporting broader initiatives to preserve biodiversity and promote sustainable ecosystems.Home to over 500 species of tropical plants, many native to Brunei and Borneo, the centre operates under the management of the Institute for Biodiversity and Environmental Research (IBER) and is a member of Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI).

Visitors interested in exploring the UBD BRC are requested to contact the centre in advance. Guided tours are available by appointment for a nominal fee, offering an enriching experience to learn about Brunei’s native flora and the university’s conservation initiatives.

Responsible waste handling

UBD Recycling Initiative aims to promote sustainability on campus by making recycling convenient and accessible for the university community. The initiative involves strategically placing recycling bins across the campus for the collection of paper, plastic, and other recyclable materials. These bins encourage students, staff, and faculty to dispose of waste responsibly, reducing the amount of trash sent to landfills and promoting the reuse of valuable resources. (include photo of these bins)

Additionally, UBD launched the Paper Recycling Project in July 2022. The initiative aims to promote and facilitate paper recycling within the university community. To date, the project has successfully collected over 11 tons of printed waste for recycling across two cycles. UBD will continue to support and expand this initiative, encouraging all members of the university to actively participate in paper recycling efforts as part of its broader environmental sustainability goals.

Sustainable Transportation

As part of our green campus initiative, UBD is enhancing sustainability by introducing sustainable transportation options. These include electric shuttle, bike paths as well as shuttle van services, promoting cleaner, greener mobility across the campus.

a. Electric shuttle (Photo)

UBD has introduced an electric shuttle as part of its continued commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, made possible by the generous donation of UBD alumni. This initiative marks a significant step toward promoting sustainability on campus. Looking ahead, UBD plans to procure additional electric shuttles in the future, further supporting its commitment to environmental responsibility and contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions for a greener, more sustainable campus.

b. Biking/walking paths (photo)

UBD offers biking and walking paths across campus, providing a safe and eco-friendly way for students, staff, and visitors to navigate the university while promoting physical activity and sustainability.

c. UBD Shuttle Van

UBD Shuttle van service is an important step in the university’s ongoing efforts to improve campus facilities and enhance convenience for the UBD community. This initiative not only supports the well-being and experience of students, staff, and visitors, but also plays a significant role in promoting sustainability. By offering a reliable transportation option, the shuttle service reduces the need for individual car use, helping to reduce traffic and lower carbon emissions across the campus

Health and Wellness

UBD is committed to promoting health and wellness among its campus community by offering a variety of recreational sports and a fully equipped fitness center. These facilities encourage regular exercise and provide spaces for leisure, helping individuals maintain a healthy, active lifestyle while effectively managing stress.

In addition to access to sports and fitness facilities, UBD supports the well-being of its members through a smoke-free campus, ensuring a clean and healthy environment. The university also offers health and medical services, along with mental health support, to ensure that students and staff have access to the care they need to thrive both physically and mentally. Through these initiatives, UBD fosters a balanced and supportive environment where individuals can prioritise their overall well-being.

1. Access to sports and Fitness Facilities
2. Smoke Free campus
3. Health and Medical Service
4. Mental Health Support

Inclusive Campus Design

UBD strives to ensure that all students and staff, regardless of abilities, have equal opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and accessible environment, where every individual can fully participate in university life. To support this vision, we have implemented essential accessible facilities such as ramps, handrails, and lifts, ensuring that the campus is easily navigable for individuals with diverse mobility needs. Additionally, we are actively working on initiatives like the installation of designated parking spaces around campus, which will further enhance accessibility for all. These efforts are a reflection of UBD’s ongoing commitment to creating a welcoming, supportive, and equitable environment, where everyone can thrive and succeed, no matter their abilities.

Innovation of Teaching and Learning Centre (InTELECT)

InTELECT at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), serves as a hub of innovation dedicated to promoting teaching excellence in education. The centre focuses on enhancing the quality of education through a variety of initiatives, including workshops and training programs designed to empower educators with the latest pedagogical skills and methodologies.

By fostering collaboration with local and global industry experts, InTELECT strengthens the ties between academia and the professional world, ensuring that teaching practices are relevant and impactful. Through its commitment to continuous improvement, InTELECT is instrumental in shaping a dynamic and effective learning environment at UBD.

Lifelong Learning

The Centre for Lifelong Learning (C3L) at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) plays a pivotal role in enhancing the student learning experience by promoting the importance of lifelong learning.

Guided by the vision of Transforming Teaching, Inspiring Lifelong Learning, C3L strives to cultivate a passion for continuous education through various initiatives. These include integrating lifelong learning principles into existing modules, offering specialised programs, and creating activities that foster this mindset among students.

C3L also develops Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programs for UBD alumni and non-UBD graduates, allowing individuals to upgrade their skills or explore second careers. Additionally, the centre offers non-formal learning opportunities for Bruneians and the general public, supporting both personal and professional growth.

UBD ensures that lifelong learning opportunities are accessible to everyone, regardless of ethnicity, religion, disability, socioeconomic status, or gender. By providing flexible and accessible lifelong learning options through blended learning formats, C3L enables students and the public to pursue higher education qualifications, whether through non-certificate, certificate, or degree programs. The centre also engages in research focused on next-generation learning technologies to enhance online learning experiences.

For more information about UBD’s programmes and the admission process, please visit UBD’s Admission Page. This page provides detailed insights into available programmes, entry requirements, application procedures, and other essential information.