This report focuses on the dramatic increase in and intensity of binge drinking (consuming more than five drinks in one sitting) on American college and university campuses--now considered the number one substance abuse problem in American college life. Anecdotal evidence indicates that many students drink more, more frequently, and with the express purpose of getting drunk. Forty-two percent of all college students reported that they had engaged in binge drinking in the previous 2 weeks. Data on specific groups, such as college women or students living in fraternities and sororities, paint an even grimmer picture. The problem of alcohol abuse also has a profound ripple effect on the entire campus community, leading to unplanned pregnancies, acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), injuries, suicide attempts, vandalism, assault, rape, and poor academic performance. College administrators feel paralyzed in teaching students to drink in moderation, as nearly three-quarters of their populations are legally underage. Action to curb alcohol abuse has involved policies restricting availability and imposing sanctions and programs promoting alcohol-free activities or peer counseling. Recommendations are presented for changing the alcohol culture on campuses and defining responsibilities of key players. The Alcohol Awareness Index, a checklist identifying the degree to which a school creates an alcohol-responsible environment that does not support abusive drinking, is appended. (Contains 73 reference notes.) (JDD)