Yvonne Orgill, MD at the Unified Water Label Association, reveals why she believes that the arrival of summer means that the pressing issue of water efficiency can no longer be ignored.
The recent heatwave, which saw temperatures climb to 30°C in June, has led to the announcement of more hosepipe bans as water supplies become depleted. The welcome rain, which has now come to most parts of the UK, will not be enough to replenish supplies because of the prolonged period of hot weather, and the driest February in England for 30 years.
A new ban has been implemented across Kent and Sussex due to a record demand for drinking water, which comes into force on 26th June. There is already a hosepipe ban in place across large parts of Devon, Cornwall and Dorset.
Whilst The Environment Agency has said there is no threat of a widespread drought in the UK at present, this situation could change rapidly, particularly as they have already given ‘drought status’ to some parts of the area covered by Anglian Water.
Our water efficiency message is now absolutely critical, not just here in the UK but across Europe, which is on track for another brutal summer, after suffering its hottest summer on record last year.
People have to start taking on board our message to use water wisely, if we are to have any impact and reduce the hardship that will result from severe water shortages. We hope that people can now see that the dangers of warming our planet are no longer something distant, it's here and now and affecting every region in the world.
The bathroom industry is taking action by supporting the Unified Water Label, a smart tool which can help us make the necessary changes. Innovative products developed to use less water and energy, without any loss of performance, are displaying the Unified Water Label, and making it easier for consumers to make environmentally friendly choices.
The Unified Water Label Association is committed to driving home the water efficiency message, encouraging everyone in the supply chain to support us by highlighting the label and the products that carry it, to ensure more of these products are used in the home. KBB retailers have been reluctant to actively promote the message and the products in the showroom. It is time for them to come on board, utilise the POS material we have available, highlight the quality of the products, and help consumers understand that they can choose products that fit with their lifestyles, with no loss of performance.
“Those interested in supporting the UWLA or joining us to embrace a cleaner, greener bathroom revolution can find out more by visiting the website www.uwla.eu.”
