Water

What can you do?

Processed foods use up a lot of water in production. Opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains instead.
Reducing our shopping habits can also save water! Buying less and buying second hand can reduce your water waste. There are many thrift stores in the Boulder area where you can practice shopping sustainably!
Water is used to create nearly everything we use in everyday life- including paper and plastic. Recycling these items can lower our water waste as well. More information on recycling can be found in the ‘Zero Waste’ section of the guide.
Water and energy are linked: it takes water to create electricity and transportation fuels, and it takes energy to treat water. Following the ‘Energy’ section of the guide is another great way to save water.
If you live off campus, schedule a free water consultation through Center for Resource Conservations Slow the Flow to learn how to decrease water waste in your home.

Turn the faucet off if you’re not actively using the water, like when cooking, lathering up in the shower, or brushing your teeth.
Look for WaterSense label to find water effiecent products that help reduce water consumption and save money.
Opt for showers instead of baths.
Use a washing machine only when it’s full of clothes and dry your clothes on a drying rack or clothes line.
Consider limiting your meat consumption or eating vegetarian or vegan one day a week.

If you notice a leaky faucet, toilet, or shower on campus, FixIt Colorado can fix it at no charge! This simple act can save up to 30,000 gallons of water a month.
FLOWS- the Foundations for Leaders Organizing for Water and Sustainability- is an on-campus organization dedicated to providing low-income communities with water conservation tools and information.
As of 2016, CU’s Athletics Department has a net-zero water footprint.