Waterwise finds businesses would welcome a centralised water efficiency incentive scheme

Business customers – particularly those in the public sector – would welcome a centralised incentive scheme to support the installation of water-saving products in their domestic-type settings, such as taps and toilets.

That’s according to a new research report from Waterwise, Wave and Weir The Agency, supported by the Market Improvement Fund.

The study found business users had appetite for a retailer-neutral centralised scheme with independent governance, ideally managed by the Government or an impartial organisation. The scheme should be widely publicised and effectively communicated.

The Waterwise-led team also found there was a clear opportunity to improve access to data, to help businesses make informed decisions on water-saving initiatives.

• Business Stream and sustainability expert 20FIFTY Partners have developed a 12-week certified water stewardship programme to help businesses reduce usage and the environmental footprint associated with water treatment. The initial programme, which is currently running, is being supported by Yorkshire Water and funded through the Strategic Panel’s Market Improvement Fund.

• Southern Water has awarded £50,000 under its Business Partnership Fund to three businesses to support their water saving initiatives. Stoneham Golf Club will use its £20,000 towards a £1.7m project to build a 33,000m³ reservoir.