Students at the University of Victoria overwhelmingly support the university banning the sale of bottled water on campus. A question tacked on to last week’s students’ society elections found 86 per cent of undergrads favoured removing bottled water from vending machines. “It’s happened at several universities and municipalities across the country,” said UVSS chair James Coccola. “Now we’re looking to, over the next three to four years, eliminate the sale of bottled water and increase the infrastructure for public water.” The move comes just weeks after Saanich council unanimously supported a similar motion affecting public buildings like rec centres and municipal hall. “This referendum shows real community support,” said Coun. Paul Gerrard, who chairs Saanich’s parks, trails and recreation advisory committee. “I think it’s great and it shows they’re looking at this problem the same way we are.” Coccola said the vote, however, isn’t an official referendum, but rather shows that students strongly support the idea. kslavin@saanichnews.com
