The University of Zanjan, in pursuit of achieving sustainable development objectives, has undertaken impactful initiatives in the domain of expanding and maintaining green spaces. These efforts focus on the optimal management of water resources, increasing the coverage of resilient plant species, and modifying landscape patterns. This approach aims to reduce water consumption, enhance adaptability to the regional climate conditions, and improve the overall environmental quality of the university.
Tamarisk (Gaz) at the University of Zanjan
Development and Enhancement of Sustainable Vegetative Coverage
In line with its sustainable development goals and the optimal utilization of limited water resources, Zanjan University has launched an extensive program aimed at expanding its vegetative coverage. Within this initiative, more than 40,000 trees have been planted, carefully selected from native species such as Elaeagnus (Russian olive), Mulberry, Tamarisk, Haloxylon, and Atriplex.
These species were chosen for their remarkable resistance to salinity, drought, and cold. Beyond their crucial role in desertification control and soil erosion prevention, they also contribute to the formation of windbreak forests that help reduce wind intensity and mitigate dust storms. The afforestation project, covering an area of 80 hectares, has significantly enhanced environmental resilience, improved the quality of the natural landscape, and created a sustainable and climate-resilient green environment.
Optimized Water Resource Management and Smart Irrigation
To promote the efficient use of water resources, all green spaces on the University of Zanjan campus have been equipped with pressurized irrigation and drip irrigation systems.
These measures have led to a significant reduction in water consumption by approximately 60% compared with traditional methods, and have substantially increased the efficiency of water resource utilization.
Supplying the required irrigation water for green spaces from sustainable sources such as wells and treated wastewater, while also reducing operating costs, plays an important role in the university’s sustainable water resource management.
Land Cover and Green Space Map
Environmental Beautification and Enhancement of Users’ Spatial Experience
The university places special emphasis on improving visual quality and creating a pleasant environment for students and staff.
Seasonal flower planting along campus pathways is carried out in two rounds during spring and summer and totals approximately 14,000 square meters annually, to bring freshness, beauty, and a vibrant atmosphere to the campus.
In addition, the design of green pedestrian routes and the creation of diverse combinations of trees, flowers, and ornamental plants provide users with a better spatial experience, transforming the university environment into a place filled with energy, comfort, and calm.
Landscape Optimization and Reduced Water
Demand In alignment with a sustainable landscape approach and the goal of reducing water consumption, the area allocated to lawn cultivation has been limited, and dry-landscaping zones with drought-tolerant plantings have been developed.
The use of native, drought-resistant species along with saving water helps preserve biodiversity, improves the resilience of the green spaces under local climatic conditions, and reduces the need for continuous maintenance.
This approach creates a natural and sustainable environment across the university campus.
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