The Environment Secretary George Eustice has today given a written statement to Parliament on the policy intentions regarding water efficiency.
The key parts of the statement are:
- Regulations to introduce a mandatory water efficiency label to inform consumers and encourage the purchase of more water efficient products
- Write to local authorities to encourage them to adopt the optional minimum building standard of 110 litres per person per day in all new builds where there is a clear local need, such as in water stressed areas
- Develop a roadmap towards greater water efficiency in new developments and retrofits, including the exploration of revised building regulations and how the development of new technologies can contribute to meeting these standards. They will ensure that the underlying legislation can, where appropriate, accommodate any potential future expansion of rainwater harvesting, water re-use and storage options.
BMA Chief Executive, Tom Reynolds, said: “Bathroom manufacturers are playing their part in reducing water consumption with a wide range of innovative products.
“Water efficiency labelling is embraced by the sector, under a voluntary scheme which has been in existence for many years, the Unified Water Label.
“BMA and its members are committed to working with Government to develop and implement any new mandatory UK requirement.
“The Unified Water Label is tried and tested, and already backed by industry, providing an efficient and effective way for Government to ensure consumers are fully informed, and it will avoid the confusion of double labelling.
“More than two thirds of domestic water use is used in the bathroom, and manufacturers are ready to lead the way in helping everyone reduce their water use.”