Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES), as a Conservation University, has strengthened its institutional commitment to sustainability by issuing official policies that govern food sourcing and aquatic resource management across its campuses. These initiatives reinforce the university’s mission to embed conservation principles into every aspect of academic and operational life.
Optimizing Sustainable Food Sources
Through Vice Rector Circular Letter No. B/28480/UN37/RT 03.03.00/2024, UNNES introduces the Optimization of Sustainable Food Sources Policy. This directive ensures that all food provided within the university environment comes from sustainable and environmentally responsible sources. The policy encourages campus units and suppliers to adopt eco-friendly practices such as sustainable agriculture, ethical food sourcing, and reduced use of non-renewable materials.
Regulating Responsible Aquatic Resource Management
Complementing this initiative, Vice Rector Circular Letter No. B/5106/UN37/TU.01.01/2023 regulates fishing and aquatic harvesting within the university area. The policy aims to protect and maintain the ecological balance of aquatic ecosystems—such as ponds, lakes, and rivers—within and around the UNNES campus. The regulation limits fishing activities to specific days determined by the university and prohibits destructive fishing methods, including mass netting and electric shock devices. Furthermore, any harvesting of fish or aquatic animals requires written permission from the campus management, and every harvest must be followed by releasing new fish stock in adequate numbers to sustain biodiversity. Violations of these provisions will result in sanctions in accordance with UNNES internal regulations. This policy, signed by Vice Rector for Partnerships, Business, and International Relations Prof. Dr. Nur Qudus, M.T., IPM, reflects UNNES’s dedication to protecting biodiversity, promoting sustainable aquatic ecosystems, and ensuring that all academic and community activities align with environmental ethics.
The policy promotes responsible and sustainable practices in aquatic resource management, ensuring that fish and other aquatic products supplied to UNNES facilities are obtained through environmentally sound methods. By monitoring and controlling fishing activities, UNNES helps maintain biodiversity and prevent overexploitation of water resources.
Institutional Leadership in Conservation
Together, these circulars illustrate UNNES’s proactive approach to institutional governance and environmental protection. They reflect the university’s broader vision of integrating sustainability into education, research, and community service, ensuring that every operational decision contributes to long-term ecological balance and responsible resource use.
