Finding those elusive water efficient products
03/01/2011 | How does anyone, embarking on the installation of a new bathroom, find details of the most water and energy efficient products on offer? “It is difficult†says Chris Taylor-Hamlin, Technical Director of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association. “Or at least it used to be. But the BMA launched its Water Efficient Product Labelling Scheme a couple of years ago to answer that very question. The scheme was recently upgraded and 2010 has seen a rapid expansion of its online database of products so that anyone involved in installing new bathrooms can get the information at a click.†The award winning WEPLS is set to grow further in the coming months and was shortlisted in August for the RSA accredited edie.net environmental excellence prize. “The scheme is designed to help people find their favorite eco bathroom products. And choosing water efficient products means that they will also be choosing, by default, energy efficient products†says Taylor-Hamlin. “The latest addition of the WEPLS Water Calculator at www.thewatercalculator.org.uk/ will help them calculate their own water usage using the very products they have just selected.†The scheme lists local stockists and showrooms who are being invited to register, for free, on line. WEPLS has grown from a germ of an idea to a catalyst for water and energy efficiency in the home.