St. Paul University Dumaguete, the only Catholic university in Negros Oriental, was adjudged the 2011-2012 Central Visayas Most Sustainable and Eco-Friendly School after a regional evaluation held by the Department of Environment & Natural Resources, Commission on Higher Education, Department of Education, and Smart Communications.
The University’s environment program, Eco SWaRM (Ecological Solid Waste Reduction Management) received appreciation from the evaluators especially the implementation of the integrated and sustainable farming with livestock raising, conservation and preservation of biodiversity that consist of a butterfly sanctuary and aviary, the regular off-campus coastal clean-up activity, reforestation and adopt a tree program in Lake Balinsasayao, educational curriculum integration, the 5S technology or good housekeeping and the 4Rs (Recover, Re-use, Recycle and Reduce) plus a Composting & Vermi Culture Facility and the recent 4 in 1 Nature- Friendly Technology (urine diversion dehydration toilet, green /living toof, use of recycled and indigenous materials, and the application of alternative and renewable energy.
Moreover, SPUD is now offering a short-term modular course, called a Certificate in Environmental Management supported by the League of Municipalities, DENR, and the Technical Educational Skills Development Authority. The course is intended for the various local government units, private agencies and individuals interested to be part of environmental conservation and protection. (Rafael Duhaylungsod)