Americans saved 125 billion gallons of Water plus more than $2 billion in water and energy bills through WaterSense in 2011
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recognized five organizations and one individual as the 2011 WaterSense Partners of the Year. More than 2,200 partners make WaterSense labeled products and new homes more affordable and easy to find. This includes the six Partners of the Year who have shown outstanding contributions to water-efficiency. WaterSense partners nationwide are manufacturing and selling a range of products. They are supporting green jobs and promoting the protection of water resources.
“WaterSense helps marshal the forces of the consumer marketplace and the innovative capacity of the private sector,” said Nancy Stoner, EPA’s Acting Assistant Administrator for Water. “Since 2006, WaterSense and our many partners have helped Americans save 125 billion gallons of water and more than $2 billion in water and energy bills.”
Earth Surface Covered in Water
While nearly 75 percent of the Earth’s surface is covered with water, only 1 percent is available for human use. Additionally, the U.S. population has doubled over the past 50 years and withdrawals from public water supplies have tripled. WaterSense partners continue to work towards more efficient water use.
Manufacturer Partner: Delta Faucet Company
A significant portion of the company’s product line has earned the WaterSense label. They have conducted widespread promotional activities and led a coalition of stakeholders in developing a performance test for showerheads.
Promotional Partner: Cobb County Water System
This two-time WaterSense Partner of the Year educates Georgia consumers on water-efficiency through engaging events and informative presentations. These focus on the significance of sustainable water usage in their daily lives. By nurturing a deeper understanding of water conservation techniques and products that promote efficiency, this initiative achieves 80 percent familiarity with WaterSense. This strong connection empowers individuals to make smarter choices regarding their water consumption. Moreover, it contributes to a broader impact on the community’s overall water sustainability efforts.
Retailer Partner: The Home Depot
The retail chain sells only WaterSense labeled lavatory faucets in its 2,000 locations across the country. This reflects a strong commitment to sustainability and water conservation. This strategic decision aligns with modern environmental standards. It also raises awareness among consumers about the importance of using water-efficient products. Consequently, customers saved roughly 27 billion gallons of water and $174 million on water utility bills in 2010. This showcases the profound impact of such initiatives on reducing both environmental footprint and household expenses. By promoting these eco-friendly faucets, the retail chain plays a significant role in water usage. They contribute to the overall health of local ecosystems.
Irrigation Partner: Christopher Curry
The sole individual Partner of the Year practices water-efficient irrigation design. This method not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of green spaces but also significantly contributes to environmental conservation. This innovative approach helps the San Diego Parks & Recreation Department save an impressive 3 million gallons of water per year. As a result, they reduce operational costs and promote sustainability. By implementing techniques such as drip irrigation and moisture sensors, the Partner demonstrates commitment to ecological responsibility. This ensures that public parks remain vibrant and thriving throughout the year.
Builder Partner: KB Home
This national home-building company is renowned for its commitment to sustainable practices and energy-efficient living. It unveiled the first WaterSense labeled homes in November 2010 at its Springwood community in Roseville, Calif. This initiative highlights the company’s dedication to environmental stewardship. Additionally, it sets a standard for future developments by showing how innovative design can reduce water usage without compromising comfort or style. These eco-friendly homes were designed with modern families in mind. They feature water-saving technologies and fixtures that ensure a reduction in water waste while promoting an overall healthier living environment.
Sources:
EPA’s WaterSense partnership program
Partners of the Year and Excellence Award
