Drinking water
Sustainable refreshment for everyone...
Since the beginning of the new year, two new water dispensers on campus have been providing hygienic and sustainable refreshment. The dispensers, which offer chilled and unchilled, sparkling and still tap water, were installed by the building services department (K42.1) at selected locations in Building 01 and Building 40 to offer students and staff a modern, cost-effective, and climate-friendly alternative to bottled water.
According to a 2020 study by GUTcert, bottled mineral water causes 586 times the greenhouse gas emissions of tap water. Therefore, the new water dispensers not only improve the quality of life on campus, especially during the hot summer months, but also contribute to the sustainable development of our university.
After careful consideration, the two locations in buildings 01 and 40 were selected for the installation of the water dispensers. The units are connected to water and wastewater lines and equipped with CO₂ cylinders. This allows for easy operation and maintenance. Regular maintenance and the replacement of the CO₂ cartridges are ensured by an experienced service company, guaranteeing smooth operation.
Users must bring their own reusable water bottles. The water dispensers offer a hygienic alternative to refilling bottles at sinks in public restrooms. The choice between chilled, unchilled, still, or sparkling water promotes healthy hydration – a clear benefit for students, staff, and campus visitors.
Water dispenser in the entrance hall of Building 01 (CSC)
Water dispenser in the basement of building 40
Water dispenser in building 22A, next to the bookstore entrance.
With the installation of the water dispensers, the university is sending a strong message about sustainability and resource conservation. The model comes from Magdeburg-Stendal University of Applied Sciences, which successfully introduced such devices back in 2014. Studies there showed high acceptance and positive effects on drinking habits.
The new water dispensers make the campus more modern, sustainable and attractive – a real added value for all visitors.
Text: Clemens Klein / Map: Sustainability Office / Images: Sebastian Beyer