On Friday, December 17th, 2024, UI GreenMetric hosted its first IG Live discussion in 2025, focusing on the theme "Energy-Smart Universities: Strategies for a Sustainable Campus." This exciting event brought together sustainability experts from renowned institutions to explore how universities can take the lead in promoting energy sustainability and contribute to global environmental goals. The panel featured Ir. Ika Noer Syamsiana, S.T., M.T., Ph.D., IPU., ASEAN Eng., APEC Eng., Associate Professor and Green Campus Team Leader at Politeknik Negeri Semarang; Prof. Ir. Syamsir Abduh, MM, Ph.D., IPU., ASEAN Eng., Vice Rector I at Institut Teknologi PLN (ITPLN); and Ir. Rivanus Dewanto, ST, M. Ars., Architecture Manager at Binus University. The session was moderated by Sabrina Hikmah Ramadianti, the Coordinator for Communication & Partnerships at UI GreenMetric.
The discussion began by highlighting the crucial role universities play in advancing energy-smart initiatives, addressing the challenges they face and exploring strategies to overcome these obstacles. Additionally, the conversation emphasized how renewable energy can complement these efforts to create a more sustainable future.
All the experts shared strategies for how academic institutions can accelerate the implementation of sustainable energy practices. Prof. Syamsir Abduh made a notable contribution by outlining ITPLN’s innovative approach, which includes three key strategies: first, technology optimization, such as the use of smart energy appliances; second, the integration of renewable energy, including efforts to convert waste into energy; and third, operational efficiency, particularly through the development of integrated, energy-efficient buildings (bangunan terpadu) that meet rigorous energy standards.
Ir. Ika Noer Syamsiana shared her expertise on the financial challenges universities often face in adopting sustainable practices. She stressed the importance of securing funding through partnerships with state-owned entities or the private sector, which can help overcome financial barriers and facilitate the implementation of green technologies and infrastructure. Additionally, Mrs. Ika emphasized the role of digital platforms like Instagram in raising awareness and promoting sustainable behaviors, a concept that UI GreenMetric actively supports through its social media channels.
Ir. Rivanus Dewanto offered insights into sustainable infrastructure, focusing primarily on the technical aspects, such as the use of ceiling panels that can naturally cool down a room without consuming extra energy. He outlined actionable steps universities can take to integrate sustainability into campus development projects. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of engaging with private sector stakeholders to source materials and solutions that contribute to building more energy-efficient and sustainable campuses.
The engaging Q&A session gave participants the chance to interact directly with the panelists, further emphasizing the growing interest in energy-smart campuses and sustainability in higher education. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing between institutions to speed up the shift to greener, more sustainable campuses.
UI GreenMetric is committed to continuing these important discussions and initiatives to promote sustainability in academic settings. This IG Live discussion is just the first of many efforts aimed at fostering sustainable practices across universities worldwide.
To stay updated on future events and green initiatives, be sure to follow UI GreenMetric on its social media platforms:
• Instagram: @ui.greenmetric • Facebook: UI GreenMetric World University Rankings • YouTube: @UIGreenMetricWUR • LinkedIn: UI GreenMetric World University Rankings
Written by Riska P. Hariyadi - Communication Specialist
