Bathroom makers criticise new green scheme for ignoring water efficiency

Bathroom equipment manufacturers have added to the chorus of criticism of the new Green Homes Grant scheme for excluding options to boost water water efficiency as well as saving energy.

Managing director of the Unified Water Label (UWL), Yvonne Orgill, said the government had missed an ideal opportunity to help homeowners save water, reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. UWL is a scheme run by the European Bathroom Forum to advocate a Europe-wide label for the water and energy efficiency of bathroom fittings.

Orgill said: “It is disappointing that water efficient and energy-saving bathroom products, such as taps, showers and WCs did not feature in the details of the Green Homes Grant published last week, which could have encouraged many to upgrade their old bathroom fittings…With up to 70% of all water used within the domestic environment associated with bathing and washing functions, and 25% of consumer energy bills linked to heating hot water, there are clear savings to be made that benefit the consumer and the environment.”

Orgill added: “Hundreds of registered brands from across Europe support the label with thousands of registered products, and benefit from the competitive advantage it brings.

Manufacturers are also realising their responsibility to educate consumers and promote the benefits of choosing products that carry the Unified Water Label. The government must support the industry with initiatives such as the Green Homes Grant or VAT reductions to help consumers understand the importance of the water efficiency and home energy message.”