Universities that provide free drinking water contribute to health, equality, and sustainability by supporting the goals outlined in the Sustainable Development Agenda. By doing so, they make their campuses more healthy, inclusive, and environmentally conscious.
When a university provides a source of free drinkable water for students, several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be achieved or positively impacted. Here are some of the relevant SDGs: 1. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – By offering free access to clean and safe drinking water, universities contribute to the goal of ensuring the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
2. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Access to clean drinking water is essential for the health and well-being of students. It helps prevent waterborne diseases and supports overall health.
3. SDG 4: Quality Education – Access to free drinking water enhances the learning environment by promoting the health and well-being of students. Healthy students are more likely to attend school regularly and focus on their studies.
4. SDG 5: Gender Equality – Provision of clean drinking water can particularly benefit female students, as they may face unique health and sanitation challenges.
5. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – Offering free drinking water promotes equality by ensuring that all students have access to this basic necessity, regardless of their socio-economic status.
6. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Promoting the use of reusable water bottles and reducing single-use plastic bottles supports responsible consumption and production patterns. 7. SDG 13: Climate Action – Reducing the consumption of bottled water and promoting tap water as a sustainable alternative contributes to efforts to combat climate change.
8. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Collaboration between universities, local authorities, and other stakeholders is crucial in achieving the above SDGs by ensuring access to clean drinking water for all. Providing free drinkable water on university campuses is a practical way to contribute to multiple SDGs and create a healthier, more sustainable, and equitable educational environment
