Water is a finite resource that needs protection. For too long we have been able to turn on the tap and have an abundant supply of water, but water scarcity is becoming more widespread. Around the world, companies are encouraged to think differently about water. We all need to start thinking of it as a precious commodity.
Waterwise is a national organization that actively supports and promotes good water efficiency practices. Every year, they organize the UK Water Efficiency Product Awards in an attempt to highlight products, technology and approaches that are beneficial to the economy, society and the environment.
Promoting water efficient products and practices is one way to encourage businesses and consumers to get involved. From low-flow nozzles on faucets and rainwater harvesting, to water audits and flow monitoring, a few small changes have made a big impact when it comes to reducing water use.
An increasing number of businesses are embracing water efficiency and reaping the rewards. According to WRAP, most organizations that implement water saving measures can achieve savings of at least 20% on water bills. These include the installation of devices such as a ultrasonic flow meter to monitor the flow of water in processes, liquid level monitors to control water levels, and other means to optimize water use.
Howard Nursery
At last year’s Waterwise Ceremony, the recipient of the Environmental Agency President’s Award was Howard Nursery. This large-scale Suffolk wholesale perennial specialist has invested in a number of environmental measures, including solar-powered electricity generation and peat-free planting. They were awarded for the creation of a reservoir and water management system that allows them to operate self-sufficiently.
Howard Nursery grows about 2 million propagated plants per year. The cost savings from not relying on mains water are considerable and help the company remain competitive in supplying plants to independent retailers, landscape designers and garden centers. In addition to cost savings, the company is improving the local environment with a reservoir filled with fish, reeds and other plants.
Leisure in Bourne
Bourne Leisure was the winner in the Business and Industry category. The company owns the Butlins, Haven and Warner Resort brands and prides itself on offering enjoyable, safe and engaging family vacations. When it came time to upgrade accommodations and facilities at its national resorts, the company decided to put water efficiency measures at the center of its plans.
In total, £94m was spent on the refurbishment of Bourne Leisure, but cost savings can be achieved on a daily basis without compromising the quality of the facilities. The investment in water efficiency measures will begin to pay off in the coming years.
In addition to its green credentials, Bourne Leisure has been ranked the Best Large Company to Work For annually for the past 7 years. Could there be some connection between the two? If you are a company that cares about the environment, are you more likely to care about your employees?
Employee Recruitment and Retention
Recent surveys have revealed that millennials are willing to work for ethical companies. They want their work to contribute to socially responsible practices that have a positive impact. They are drawn to companies and organizations that have incorporated sustainable practices and promote opportunities to engage in activities such as volunteering as part of their corporate social responsibility program.
This may not seem like a big deal right now, but by 2025 three quarters of the workforce will be millennials. Incorporating sustainable practices like water efficiency into the workplace can already lead to considerable savings on water bills, but whether it can also help recruit and retain staff is another persuasive argument.
recognition by action
The cost savings can be a fair reward for your investment. An ethical reputation that encourages staff recruitment and retention, as well as new clients, could be other benefits. The icing on the cake could be public recognition and an award.
If your business has been actively taking innovative steps to minimize water use, you may still have time to get involved. The closing date for registration for the 2017 Awards is January 13. More details and product categories can be found on the Waterwise website.