NRW leading the way on water efficiency
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has been awarded the Waterwise Checkmark for four of its buildings across Wales, demonstrating its commitment to using water resources more efficiently.
The Checkmark - an independently verified accreditation - has been awarded to Coed y Brenin, Ynyslas, Bwlch Nant yr Arian and Garwnant Visitor Centres and NRW’s offices in Cardiff, Bangor and Llandarcy.
NRW is the first regulator in the UK to be recognised for its efforts to conserve water on its estate, as a means of mitigating potential climate change impacts.
Over the last three years efficiency measures in our buildings have saved the equivalent of three and a half Olympic swimming pools of water.
Measures installed at the sites include aerator shower and taps heads, dual flush toilets, no flush urinals, water meters and rain water harvesting systems for toilet flushing, measures that can be easily installed in business and homes to improve water efficiency.
Brendan Hardiman, NRW Water Resources advisor, said:
“NRW is dedicated to protecting and improving our environment in Wales. The challenges posed by climate change are exerting new pressures on our water resources, which are essential for a resilient ecosystem and sustainable water supplies.
“The measures we have taken to reduce our water and carbon footprint across the business have positive contributory effects on the natural environment. They help to tackle climate change impacts and highlight our commitment to resource efficiency and the financial savings that come from this.
“Water is a precious commodity. Many reservoirs suppling public water are topped up by water abstraction from rivers. It is important we recognise the knock-on effect of wasting water unnecessarily both at home and at work, particularly during times of prolonged dry weather, whilst maintaining the Public Health Wales COVID-19 guidance of regular hand washing.”
Clare Pillman, CEO of Natural Resources Wales said:
“Natural Resources Wales is proud to be the first UK regulator to be awarded the Waterwise Checkmark, highlighting our commitment to water efficiency at our offices and visitor centres.
“We recognise the environmental benefits of efficient use of one of the most essential of Wales’ natural resources, and are committed to making further efficiency savings across our estate, reducing our water footprint and climate impact.
“We will look to share our experience and knowledge with partners, so that we can all play our part to make water efficiency savings and help create the Wales we want to see in the future.”
Dr Kate Marx, Waterwise Campaigns and Social Research Manager, said:
"We are delighted to award the Waterwise Checkmark to these Natural Resources Wales sites, in recognition of their commitment to water efficiency. They have demonstrated a culture of sustainability and using water wisely, and we encourage businesses and regulators to follow their lead.”