As part of the recognition of human rights in the constitution, the human right to water in Switzerland is enshrined at the federal level. The responsible bodies and persons of the city, municipality or institution are aware of how they contribute to the respect of the right to water and support each other in its implementation.
In Switzerland, public control over water supply has existed for a long time. This political and institutional experience and the privileged position in the world legitimizes and obliges Switzerland to openly exchange experiences in the framework of international cooperation and to advocate for international institutional regulations and their enforcement.
Internal operating structures, services and events use drinking water from the public water supply wherever possible. Blue Communities refrain from transporting bottled water unless this is also disproportionate in the long term. Thus, at internal events, tap water is always offered as an alternative in addition to any bottled water that may be available.
A Blue Community also campaigns for the right to water at the international level. It maintains long-term partnerships with cities, municipalities or institutions abroad. The exchange of knowledge and experience is promoted through the umbrella organization "Blue Community", which ensures networking and support with specialized agencies and individuals.
Information directly related to the Blue Community are published on our social media channels:
Several Universities and Highschools in Switzerland are part of the Blue Community family. Beginning of September, a first exchange among these Swiss Blue Universities took place, organized by the Sustainability Team of the University of St. Gall.
On October 23rd, a first exchange among Blue Universities on international level is scheduled. 17 people from 9 universities took part in finding a common timeslot. More people will join in for the video conference. Blue Community co-founder Maude Barlow will open the videoexchange. She herself contributed most to have several Canadian universities in the Blue Community network.
The (preliminary) agenda of the Blue University network session:
1. Welcome and introduction (Maude Barlow)
2. Blue Clusters: Network of Blue Universities around the globe (Roland)
3. Tour de Table: Short introduction/presentation of the participating Blue Universities, ongoing projects related to SDG 6 + links for potential collaboration
4. International networking/collaboration. Future exchange
If you are interested in joining the Blue Universities network, contact Roland Brunner, Blue Community Zurich.
(for more details and zooming, click on the link or on the map to open Google Maps)
