Housing achieves water conservation through implementing sustainable infrastructure and storm water management systems.
- 39 water bottle filling stations are available in Housing. Filling stations are located on the main floor of each building. On average, each station saves waste from 27,000 plastic water bottles a year.
- Promoting reuseables, Housing provides each incoming residence hall resident with a reusable water bottle.
- Dual flush and low flow toilets and other fixtures are prioritized to conserve water. These efficiency upgrades allow for about a 50% reduction in water use per unit.
- Energy Star rated appliances are installed during remodels to use approximately 20% less energy and 35% less water when compared to conventional counterparts.
- University Apartments manages two rain gardens and four bio-retention basins to protect Lake Mendota and surrounding habitats and animals by reducing runoff and pollution.
- Hydration Stations are used at Housing events to reduce waste from single use plastic bottles.
- Submit maintenance reports (MARS) when you see leaky faucets, showerheads, and toilets (Housing residents and staff only).
- Only wash full loads of laundry and use the cold cycle. Hang dry items.
- Turn off the sink when brushing your teeth or shaving.
- Do not let the faucet run while washing vegetables or rinsing dishes.
- Avoid using the toilet as a trash can (e.g. flushing tissues or other garbage).
- Ditch disposables! Refill rather than buying bottled water.