Water, Water Everywhere -- Or Nowhere?

As a St. Louis Post-Dispatch article included in today’s UB Daily reported, Washington University in St. Louis is phasing out almost all of its sales of bottled water this fall. Matt Malten, the university’s assistant vice chancellor for sustainability, is quoted as saying, “We see this as a waste issue and an energy issue.” Students who insist on drinking bottled water will have to bring their own from off-campus or home.

Comments posted in response to the story ranged from applause for the decision and ridicule of those who pay to drink water to concern that it’s a move toward socialism and Communism. Some highlights:

• “mpkunz” wrote, “I have always wondered why anyone would want to pay for something you can get for free. I have a bottle that I fill several times per day from the water fountain in my workplace.”

• “LeonardWilson,” claiming to be a Washington University MBA grad, pointed out that, “As a private institution, Wash U can do what it wants. … However, it is a matter that the Secular Progressive Food Police are limiting choices…why not let the free market make these choices?”

• “hartnetc” wrote, “Are they selling bottled sodas? Soda is not healthy at all and creates just as much waste if sold in bottles. Bottled soda is more popular than bottled water so the waste issue is much greater. If they are dispensing beverages from fountains, I hope the cups are washable and re-usable.”

• “opinionentitled” wonders “how much selling the water contributes to the school financially vs. the soda? Instead of pulling the water pull the soda and the candy/chips etc. A better way to deal with it is put out the concern they have and let the students decide if they want to go with out the water.”

• “JakeDaSnake” pointed out that with some companies “now making plastic bottles from corn oil that are completely biodegradable, I don't see why every plastic bottling company hasn't switched over yet. … Wash U. should focus on trying to convince bottling companies to change their packaging, not to remove their product.”

What do you think?