A collaborative effort involving nine organizations is underway to encourage children and young people to choose water over sugary drinks like soda and energy drinks. The partnership aims to improve water accessibility in locations frequented by youth.

As a first step, 50 water fountains will be installed in schools, institutions, and sports halls across five pilot municipalities. This initiative is spearheaded by the Center for a Healthy Life and Well-being, which coordinates the partnership.

According to the Center for a Healthy Life and Well-being, a significant number of schools (24%) and sports halls (49%) currently lack water fountains.

The partnership includes various organizations such as Madkulturen (Food Culture), Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, the Danish Water and Wastewater Association, the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration, KL (Local Government Denmark), FGU Denmark, the Vocational Schools’ Student Organization, and Danish School Students.

Inspiration for this initiative has been drawn from countries like Australia and New Zealand, where “water only” schools have demonstrated increased water consumption. A U.S. study also indicated a decrease in BMI among children in schools with water fountains.

A 2024 survey revealed that a large percentage of children consume more sugary drinks than recommended. The partnership plans to repeat the survey to monitor changes in drinking habits.

Future work will involve interviewing young people in the pilot municipalities, measuring water consumption at the new fountains, and examining the factors influencing their beverage choices, such as social media, advertising, and peer influence.

The Center for a Healthy Life and Well-being, backed by the Ministry of Interior and Health and the Novo Nordisk Foundation, is funding the initiative with approximately ten million kroner.