NEWS: Another Student Victory! BU Eliminates the Sale of Bottled Water!

December 17, 2009
Canadian Federation of Students News Release

Brandon University to Become Bottled Water Free
University to officially sign Water Pledge today, challenge others to do the same

Brandon, MB - Brandon University President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Deborah Poff officially signed a Water Pledge today that commits the university to eliminate the distribution and sale of bottled water at Brandon University.

"This is an example of students and the university working together to continue our commitment in leading the way in making our campuses and communities more environmentally sustainable." said Dr. Poff, "This initiative demonstrates the important role of campuses in taking action on bottled water and in supporting public water services."

Brandon University is only the third university campus in Canada to officially commit to phasing out bottled water. Through the Water Pledge, the university has committed to upgrade existing water fountains on campus and install new fountains and fill stations to further increase access to safe, clean, and cold drinking water for students and staff. The university will also offer public drinking water at university events in place of bottled water and will install new signage to raise awareness of the fountain locations around campus.

"Students across Canada are working together to reduce our environmental impact and fight back against the commodification of a public right, water," added Brandon University Students' Union president Stephen Montague, "we challenge other institutions and municipalities to follow the leadership example set by Brandon University in reclaiming the tap and eliminating the bottle."

At the Brandon University Students' Union Annual General Meeting in November 2009, the students voted overwhelmingly in favor of eliminating the sale of bottled water on campus. BUSU's efforts are part of an ongoing national student campaign organised by the Canadian Federation of Students, the Sierra Youth Coalition and the Polaris Institute.
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For more information:

Stephen Montague, President, Brandon University Students' Union

Deputy Chairperson Canadian Federation of Students - Manitoba: 204-724-3494

Dr. Deborah Poff, Brandon University President: 204-727-9711

 

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