Media Release
Thursday 6th October 2011
The independent judging process was headed by environmental consultant, Mr Rob Gell, with an expert panel of judges to determine the leaders in water sustainability within the commercial and industrial sectors across Australia.
The Prime Minister's Water Wise Award specifically recognises water saving commitment within the commercial and industrial sectors, which typically accounts for between 15 and 20 per cent of all water used in Australia.
Mr Nigel Finney, CEO of the savewater!® Alliance Inc. is delighted with the high calibre of entries received for the Prime Minister's Water Wise Award.
"I would like to congratulate all of this year's award finalists; it is fantastic to see that so many businesses have undertaken exceptional water efficiency initiatives, especially as they are often demanding on time and resources," said Mr Finney.
Mr Rob Gell, environmental consultant and head judge, believes that the Prime Minister's Water Wise Award allows organisations within the industrial and commercial sector to illustrate that they are setting new standards for their respective industries, that promote best sustainable practice for the future.
"Each of this year's finalists has demonstrated the high level of water efficiency that the judging panel requires, but we're also seeing programs that are more comprehensive in their scope and which deliver a range of positive environmental outcomes," says Mr Gell.
Winners will be announced at a Gala Ceremony in Melbourne on Friday 11th November 2011.
Nursery Traders Pty Ltd has proven their strong commitment to water efficiency over nearly two decades. The Nursery Traders team has implemented a broader approach to water efficiency to deliver triple bottom line outcomes. The organisation's exceptional water savings of over 82% are complemented by savings in energy and paper use through its adopted sustainability program.
Plant Growers Australia Pty Ltd has exhibited a mathematical, scientific approach to achieve excellence in water efficiency. To achieve 66% savings in water use over 12 months after a 91% reduction the previous year is especially impressive.
As a community hub, Village Centre Batemans Bay has tackled the need to reduce potable water use in a comprehensive way by using effective, readily available technologies. This has seen the Centre become a model for other centres to achieve water efficiency and sustainable outcomes without having to commit substantial resources.
Encore Tissue (Aust) Pty Ltd saved an astounding 166 mega litres of water over the 12 months to June 2011 by making a considerable investment in innovative new technology. The organisation saved 50% of its potable water use, recycled its wastewater in the tissue making process and achieved significant reductions in trade waste discharges.
The Geelong Racing Club has adopted a portfolio of programs to deliver a suite of solutions over many years. Investment in efficient irrigation systems in the 2010/2011 financial year allowed 100% of irrigation needs to be delivered from non-potable supplies. The Club has created a sense of community by widely promoting its water saving activities to inspire others, and by sharing its water resources with the local community showgrounds.
Daisy Fresh Professional Dry Cleaners is to be commended for its commitment to overall sustainability. While not a finalist, this organisation's efforts are a fine example of how excellent outcomes can be achieved with minimal financial outlay, and is a great case study for the general dry cleaning industry.
Ashley Walsh
T: 03 8508 6810
E: awalsh@savewater.com.au