EPA Recognizes Companies, Individual for Saving Water
On Nov. 27, EPA announced the winners of a new awards program aimed at recognizing outstanding leadership and innovation in water efficiency. Winners of the first Water Efficiency Leader (WEL) Awards were chosen by a panel of national water experts and based on three criteria: leadership, innovation, and water saved.
"These water efficiency stars are shining examples of cooperative conservation and innovative technology," said Benjamin H. Grumbles, assistant administrator for water. "EPA salutes these leaders for helping America save water, money, and energy for families and communities."
While population has nearly doubled over the past 50 years, water use has more than tripled. Due to demographic shifts, increased demand, and aging water infrastructure, there is a national need for more efficient use of our water resources. EPA recognizes this need and has developed the WEL Awards in addition to a variety of other initiatives, such as a product labeling program and a national organization to foster water efficiency.
The WEL Awards seek to foster a nationwide ethic of water efficiency, as well as to inspire, motivate, and recognize efforts that save water. The program allows EPA to document best practices, share information, and create a network of water efficiency leaders. Award recipients gain national recognition for their accomplishments, the opportunity to learn from other leaders, and the right to market themselves as recipients of this award.
Water Efficiency Leader Awards: http://www.epa.gov/water/wel
Sustainable Infrastructure: http://www.epa.gov/water/infrastructure
WaterSense: http://www.epa.gov/watersense
This article originally appeared in the 11/01/2006 issue of Environmental Protection.