What stood as a barren landscape six decades ago is today ranked as one of the best green campuses in the world. Manipal University has been ranked second in India and 78th in the UI Green Metric Ranking of World Universities-2011. The transformation was made possible by adopting innovative and scientific methods in the areas of solid waste management, rainwater harvesting, vermi-compost, energy conservation and waste water recycling. Restrictions have also been imposed on use of vehicles in the campus to minimize carbon emission and students are encouraged to use campus buses and bicycles. Solar panels are installed to eliminate the use of electricity and diesel for heating water. 22% of the campus area is covered with greenery. The university has been awarded ISO 14001:2004 certificate.
