August 19, 2005—Envirowise, the British government-funded program that advises businesses on improving their bottom lines by being more resource efficient, is launching Water Wealth, an initiative to encourage UK businesses to cut down the amount of water they are pouring down the drain every day.
UK industry and commerce reportedly use 1300 million m3 of water every year, which is three times more water than necessary, says Envirowise. The wastage is contributing to a “desert state” in Britain with figures showing there to be less water per head in the South East of England than in countries such as Syria and Sudan.
According to Envirowise, a business that implements a simple and effective water-conservation technique can cut its annual water consumption by up to 30% and enjoy substantial cost savings. In addition, there are a number of real incentives for industry to invest in technologies that promote the efficient use of water, including tax relief via the Government’s Enhanced Capital Allowance (ECA) program.
Envirowise warns that ignoring the issue will lead to a rise in the cost of water and a massive drain on profits as well as the environment. The organization advises the main industrial users to look at ways of cutting their consumption, and says that office workers have to realize they have a role to play as well to help cut the financial as well as environmental cost.
Envirowise offers on-site evaluations to help businesses reduce water consumption. The Envirowise Web site offers FMs and others practical advice on becoming more water-resource efficient, including the following tips:
- Don’t think of water use and disposal charges as fixed costs. Many companies can save up to 50% of their water costs through implementing simple and inexpensive water minimization measures.
- Always measure and monitor the amount of water used. Compare water use each year and benchmark against similar businesses.
- Appoint a water monitor to undertake periodic site checks to identify water minimization opportunities.
- Make sure staff are fully aware of the importance of water minimization and encourage them to report leaks. Ensure that identified leaks are repaired quickly.
- Ensure pipes are well insulated to protect against frost damage.
- Investigate opportunities for re-using process water.
- Keep water-using equipment well maintained and check it periodically for leaks.
- When purchasing new equipment, take its water efficiency into account. More expensive efficient equipment may cost less in the long run.
- Fit water-minimizing controls where possible, such as push taps, flow regulator/restrictors, cistern displacement devices, spray nozzles on hoses, low flush toilets, and sensor urinal flushing controls.
- Turn off taps fully—a 5mm stream of water wastes 528 000 liters of water each year.
