The Problems Of Water Stress Are Highlighted Yet Again
27/09/2010 | Water stress across the world remains in the headlines and the latest report from the Institution of Civil Engineers, The Royal Academy of Engineering, and the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management has highlighted, once more, the need for water efficiency measures here in the UK. Engineering experts have warned that the UK's future development could be threatened if we do not address the escalating global water crisis with urgency. In their new report - Global Water Security, an engineering perspective - they warn that with population growth, urbanisation, changing diets, pollution of water resources and climate change, global water resources are set to become even more stressed. Water is one of the most undervalued natural commodities in the world, directly affecting national security through its impact on economic growth, energy security, food supply and healthcare. This domino effect has been described by the Government's Chief Scientific Advisor Professor John Beddington as a 'perfect storm', which could lead to global instability if each of the inter-dependent elements are not addressed. The report goes on to say that the UK must take the lead by tackling its own water footprint and managing its own water resources sustainably. BMA welcomes report "We welcome this report" says Yvonne Orgill, chief executive of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association. "Members of the BMA realised several years ago that the developing water crisis would soon become a major influence on our culture and collectively we wanted to play our part in reducing its impact. We set about designing and marketing super-water-efficient bathroom products. Then to ensure that these products were brought to the attention of consumers the Water Efficient Product Labelling Scheme was launched and this has now become the UK's standard in water efficiency labelling." Look for the label Around 1000 water efficient bathroom products are listed on the award-winning scheme and architects, designers, installers and consumers can use the scheme's website to search for product to suit their particular needs of style and budget. Products are shown in a number of specialist categories together with their water efficiency credentials. Images of the products enhance the database and lists of UK stockists aid the purchaser. Product literature, adverts, websites and other point-of-sale materials are now incorporating the WEPLS label which is now recognised by government. More details of WEPLS can be found directly at www.water-efficiencylabel.org.uk/ or by phone at 01782 747123