Water conservation is critical in California. The state has experienced years of drought conditions that are being further exacerbated by climate change. CSUCI is dedicated to being a responsible steward of resources and has implemented water conservation strategies throughout campus.
CSUCI is striving to reduce water consumption 10% below 2019 levels by 2030.
Check out CI’s Annual Sustainability Reports to see our progress toward that goal!
What is CSUCI Doing to Conserve Water?
Turf Conversion
CSUCI’s Landscaping Services staff have strategically replaced turf (grass) in multiple areas across campus to conserve water and increase biodiversity. Turf replacement projects use plants that are drought-tolerant, native to coastal southern California, and attractive to pollinators. A few of the turf replacement projects can be viewed in front of Grand and Petite Salons in North Quad, along Solano and Napa Halls in North Quad, and along the Bell Tower in South Quad.
Recycled Water
CSUCI saves precious potable water by irrigating more than 99% of the campus with recycled water. Recycled water used for irrigation is the product of wastewater that has gone through three stages of treatment. This process supports sustainability by saving clean drinking water that would have otherwise been used to irrigate. CSUCI’s recycled water is processed and treated through the Camrosa Water District.
Potable water costs significantly more than recycled water. From July 2015 through June 2020, CI saved more than $500,000 by simply using recycled water instead of potable water for irrigation.
Fixture Upgrades
Urinals, toilets, and sinks throughout campus have been upgraded to reduce water use in campus restrooms. Nearly 100% of urinals on campus are now waterless. Toilets have been upgraded from 3.5 gallons per flush (gpf) to 1.6 or 1.28 gpf, depending on the building they’re installed in. Aerators have been installed on sinks across campus to conserve water. By taking these steps, we are reducing water flow rates by approximately 50%, thus saving a great deal of water.
Water Conservation Tips
- If you notice a leak or running toilet on campus, please notify the Facilities Services Work Center at fsworkcenter@csuci.edu or call 805-437-8461.
- Turn off the water while lathering hands with soap and while brushing your teeth or shaving.
- Always run full loads in the washing machine or dishwasher.
- Use car washes instead of washing at home. Commercial car washes in California are required to treat and reuse their water.
- Convert your landscaping to drought-tolerant, pollinator-friendly plants.