Pacific Lutheran University
IN-1: Innovation 1

As of Fall 2009, bottled water is not sold in the dining halls and at catered campus events. A committee of students, faculty, and staff reviewed the issues involved in the use of bottled water on campus and submitted a report to the President in October 2008. The consensus of the committee was to restrict bottled water use where tap water was easily accessible, but to remain selling bottled water in the "convenience store" locations on campus with room to open discussion for further mandatory reductions at a later time. Fifty water fountains were upgraded with “goose-neck” attachments and new sinks were added in dining halls. Dining Services offers water urns and containers for events. All undergraduate students received a reusable water bottle in 2008- and incoming students have the option of purchasing a water bottle at the cost of $1.00. New staff and faculty members now receive a reusable bottle at employee orientation. In addition, educational activities concerning bottle water use have been implemented proceeding the removal and until this date. Students are encouraged to "Drink Responsibly" with activities including tap water taste tests, contests, and documentary showings.  The removal of one-time-use water bottles on campus has brought the issue of waste accumulation and water scarcity to the fore of campus attention.