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Water Icon Water

The University of California's Sustainable Practices Policy has a goal to reduce water use by 36% per capita by 2025 and has already met and exceeded this goal. Student Housing and Dining Services recognizes water as one of California's precious resources and has taken great strides in conserving it and contributing to the campus goal.

Progress

UC Davis Progress - Water

Take Action

For water conservation tips, visit the Sustainable Action Guide

Best Practices

In the Residence Halls

  • Low-flow showerheads and faucets
  • Low-flush toilets and urinals
  • Cleaning equipment and procedures that reduce water use
  • Annual Energy & Water Challenge to educate and encourage residents to reduce energy & water use
  • Water refill stations in every residence hall

In the Dining Commons

  • Trayless dining, which has saved more than 50,000 gallons of water and reduced food waste by nearly 30 percent
  • Low-flow nozzles and faucets
  • Motion sensor handwashing sinks in kitchen
  • Force-thaw (water bath thawing) only in emergencies
  • Re-circulating water troughs in dishroom
  • SMARTPOWER™ by Ecolab warewashing system reduces water use

Landscape

  • Drought-tolerant landscaping
  • Computer-controlled irrigation that accounts for current conditions
  • Water-efficient sprinkler heads that reduce run-off
  • Sub-surface turf irrigation
  • Bioswales collect rainwater for landscaping
  • Mulch keeps moisture in the ground

For more information