Water at Work
Drinking Water
- Use a water filter and a reusable container or cup to drink tap water or water from the drinking fountain rather than purchasing bottled water.
- Dispose of water left in bottles and cups by pouring it on office plants.
- Store a pitcher or other container of water in the refrigerator and keep some reusable cups on hand so that office mates and visitors can hydrate without the plastic bottle waste.
- Contact PPD about retrofitting your water fountain with a fixture for filling cups and containers more easily.
Sinks & Taps
- Use a plug in the sink for washing dishes.
- Make sure that faucets are turned off all the way and promptly report leaky faucets and toilets to the PPD Work Management.
Toilets
- Don’t use the toilet as a trash can. Throw items other than toilet tissue in the waste receptacle.
- Report leaking toilets as soon as you notice them (call 392-1121).
Stormwater
- Don’t throw anything into storm drains. These lead directly to creeks or to Lake Alice, and ultimately our aquifer.
- If you commute to UF by car, be sure to check for fluid leaks regularly. Leaking fluids, such as oil or coolant, can contaminate surface and ground water.
- If your department is planning a new landscape, encourage the use of native plants, and work with UF’s Grounds staff to ensure that Florida-Friendly landscaping practices are implemented.
Awareness
- Take an inventory – choose one full day to pay attention to your water use on an average day and identify where you could reduce your use.
- Report irrigation related problems, e.g., broken sprinklers, lines, or sprinkler systems running for an excessive amount of time to PPD Work Management.

