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Learn Conservation Tips at World Water Day

Students, employees plan sustainable activities March 19 to 22

This flier, among others, will be posted around campus to raise awareness of water conservation during weeklong events around World Water Day on March 22.
This flier, among others, will be posted around campus to raise awareness of water conservation during weeklong events around World Water Day on March 22.

In the time it takes Duke community members to brush their teeth each morning, about five gallons of water might go down the drain.

That's just one of the points of information Duke is trying to share for World Water Day, which takes place March 22 and is highlighted by information sessions and activities on campus through March 22. Throughout the week, student organizations and Sustainable Duke plan to host water taste tests, trivia, a water bottle art installation, free giveaways and more.

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Events are planned from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. March 19 to 22 on The Plaza. Students, faculty and staff can keep track of daily events on the Duke Events Calendar and the Sustainable Duke website.

"I believe it is necessary to allow students and the community to gain a greater understanding of and appreciation for water," said Kelly Shen, a first-year student and member of Students for a Sustainable Living. "In order to better preserve this precious resource for future generations, it is important that we understand the impact that our actions today have on water across the globe, regarding production materials, conservation and human well-being."

During the World Water Day events, Duke community members can stop by tables on The Plaza to sign pledges to reduce the use of bottled water on campus by switching to drinking more tap water. Green Devil Smackdown participants will be able to receive points in the sustainable competition for visiting the Sustainable Duke table.

"Duke has taken steps to reduce water consumption on campus, like installing low-flow fixtures in bathrooms and constructing a water reclamation pond," said Casey Roe, outreach coordinator for Sustainable Duke. "Activities during Water Week will educate and encourage the Duke community to conserve the limited freshwater on our planet."