Southeastern Louisiana University has earned a notable distinction by receiving the University Affiliate Grant from Keep Louisiana Beautiful, Louisiana’s leading organization focused on reducing litter and improving communities. According to this article from AN17 and Hammond Star, The $5,000 grant, awarded as part of a larger environmental initiative, will support the university’s Water Bottle Refill Stations project. This sustainability project aims to encourage the campus community to reduce their reliance on disposable drink containers by promoting the use of refillable bottles and raising awareness about sustainable choices.
The Water Bottle Refill Stations project is designed not only to provide convenient access to hydration but also to educate students, faculty, and staff on the environmental impact of single-use containers. Chris Asprion, Director of Physical Plant at Southeastern, emphasized the importance of shifting daily habits. He explained that single-use beverage containers are a significant source of waste, much of which can be avoided by simply opting to refill rather than toss. Asprion pointed out that choosing reusable bottles helps cut down on landfill waste and reduces the likelihood of litter polluting storm drains, waterways, and natural habitats.
The University Affiliate Grant is a component of a larger environmental initiative funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. In 2021, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette secured a $500,000 five-year EPA Gulf of Mexico Trash-Free Waters Grant. As a sub-recipient, Keep Louisiana Beautiful has used that funding to establish the University Affiliate program and support various anti-litter and sustainability initiatives across the state.
This program has resulted in the development of a mobile litter assessment app, educational video resources tailored for college campuses, and direct grants to help universities like Southeastern implement their own sustainability projects. The initiative reflects a growing interest among Louisiana’s colleges and universities in reducing waste and fostering environmental responsibility.
Becoming a Keep Louisiana Beautiful University Affiliate carries both symbolic and practical significance. It signals that a university has made a public commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices. Affiliates are expected to engage in continuous improvement, encourage student involvement in environmental efforts, and track measurable outcomes. This designation also brings statewide recognition and aligns Southeastern with a broader network of over 600 National Affiliates and 43 Community Affiliates known for their leadership in effecting positive environmental change.
By joining this movement, Southeastern is reinforcing its dedication to sustainability and setting a strong example for its students. As part of this network, the university will have access to resources, training, and collaborative opportunities that can help it expand its efforts and achieve long-term impact.
Keep Louisiana Beautiful’s mission is rooted in fostering individual, corporate, and community responsibility to protect and enhance Louisiana’s natural beauty. The organization focuses on four core areas to fulfill its goals: Policy and Infrastructure Improvements, Law Enforcement Support, Behavioral Education, and Community Empowerment.
With this new grant and through their new sustainability project, Southeastern Louisiana University is not only reducing waste but also deepening its investment in student awareness and environmental action. This initiative supports a campus culture where sustainability is seen as an ongoing effort, not just a one-time project. The refill stations symbolize a practical solution, but they also represent a broader shift toward mindful resource use and long-term environmental responsibility.
As Southeastern joins the growing ranks of institutions working to protect Louisiana’s landscapes and waterways, the message is clear: small daily actions, like refilling a water bottle, can collectively lead to significant and lasting change. These seemingly minor choices, when adopted across a campus community, foster a culture of sustainability, promote environmental awareness, and inspire the next generation to take ownership of their ecological footprint.
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