Yvonne Orgill, MD at The Unified Water Label Association, (UWLA) has called on the industry to invest in motivating consumers to use water wisely, by promoting the Unified Water Label.
Orgill made her comments as the UWLA submits a detailed background paper for DEFRA and BEIS about water efficiency in the bathroom industry, as part of the information gathering phase, before consultations begin in 2022, on a possible mandatory label.
Orgill said: “We fully support the Government’s aims set out in the 25-Year Environment Plan to achieve clean and plentiful water, and their commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. Their plans for a mandatory label were set out in July this year as part of a package of measures to help households across England use water more efficiently.
“The Unified Water Label is an established and recognised smart tool that can help the industry motivate the consumer to recognise that water matters, and make the changes required to meet the Government’s targets.
“Retailers have an important role to play as they can help the consumer understand the link between using water, energy and their carbon footprint. Without their commitment to drive home our messages, and help the consumer make informed decisions, then we will fail.
“This is why we have invested in a retailer campaign for all our members across Europe. We have put together a package that is easy to use and access for free, from the website. It includes a range of tools, flyers, posters, social media posts and videos, all reinforcing our message that water matters, and tips and advice on how to save water in the home.
“Alongside this we have issued a questionnaire to members to understand better how they currently communicate with customers. This will enable us to continue to improve on the tools available, supporting our members in this essential task.
“If we are to succeed, we must all work harder, not just to help the consumer understand how much water they use and the consequences of their actions, but to make it matter. Changing behaviour is key to our success, and retailers can help us by bringing the dialogue to their customers."
Those interested in finding out how they can become involved by supporting the Unified Water Label can find out more here.
