World Water Day 2024 - The victory of drinking water fountains at the Olympic Stadium!

In a world where every drop of water counts and sustainability is the magic word, we have reached a milestone today — or rather, a water stone! The curtain fell and the water bubbled: The first of 51 public drinking water fountains was ceremonially inaugurated. But wait a minute, that's not all! Not only did we pop the champagne corks, but we also chose the winners of a raffle — and not from just anything, but from 50 more of these bubbling lifelines!

Drinking water fountains for EURO 2024

Inaugurations are known for being as exciting as a coffee mug without caffeine. But this one here? Well, it has let over 700 cities in Germany hold their breath, which have applied for the remaining 50 drinking fountains, which the Federal Minister for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection helped to promote. And here is the list of winners: EURO2024 drinking fountain

Board member Prof. Dr. Donner from BWB, accompanied by Steffi Lemke from the Federal Ministry for the Environment and Ms. Paus from the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens and Youth, stood there with bright faces as they tapped the first stream from the drinking water fountains. It wasn't just an act of inauguration, it was like the opening of a new era — the era of drinking with a clear conscience!

2030 Agenda and 17 EU Sustainable Development Goals

But wait a minute, how did we get here anyway? Well, let me tell you a little story. Once upon a time, there was a club called Atiptap that not only brushed its teeth but also had a vision. They dreamt of a world in which drinking water was as free as the thoughts of a spring bird. So they grabbed the 2030 Agenda and called for action! They organized a prize draw — and no, it wasn't about a lifetime supply of cookies (although that wouldn't have been bad either), but something much more valuable: the installation of 51 public drinking water fountains. Yes, you heard that right, 51! That's more than the number of jokes I have in my repertoire today — and that really means something!

But why are these drinking water fountains actually so important? Well, my dear readers, they're not just aesthetic faucets in public spaces. They are the superheroes of sustainability when it comes to drinking water! They help us quench our thirst while being lazy because we don't have to carry bottles around with us and achieve the 17 sustainability goals of the 2030 Agenda set by the EU. From fighting poverty to preserving the environment, these fountains are like the Swiss Army Knives of sustainability!

Health-promoting environmental protection

Let's take a closer look at how these sparkling wonders can save the universe — or at least our planet! First, they reduce the consumption of single-use plastic bottles. Imagine how many turtles we could save if we all stopped squandering plastic bottles like confetti! Second, they promote health. Because let's all be honest, who needs sugar bomb drinks when you can have fresh, cold water straight from the spring? Third, they strengthen the community. After all, what connects people more than a good chat at a drinking water fountain? From new friendships to spontaneous water battles — these fountains are like the social glue binding of our cities!

But wait, it gets even better! These drinking water fountains are not only good for us humans, but also for Mother Nature. They help to reduce our environmental footprint; to be precise: The savings from 600 times compared to the consumption of plastic water bottles.

Less plastic waste, less transport of bottles, less CO2 emissions — that sounds like a real environmental blast, doesn't it?

Who benefits from this sustainable trend?

And do you know what's the best part about it? Everyone can be a part of this sustainable revolution! Whether young or old, big or small, anyone can become a hero of water. So, my dear readers, grab your water bottles and let's take the plunge together — in the truest sense of the word!

In a world where resources are becoming scarcer and challenges are becoming ever greater, it is often the small things that make the difference. And those public water dispensers? Well, they may be small compared to the oceans, but they have the potential to create waves of change. So let's toast together — to a future in which water flows freely and sustainability bubbles like champagne on New Year's Eve!