Hippo to share in $2 million for innovative water projects

A Melbourne Zoo research project, to test a water treatment process to better manage bacteria levels in the Pygmy Hippopotamus pool, has secured funding through round seven of the Smart Water Fund.

Using ‘Silver Water’ technology, the zoo will be able to better manage the quality of the Hippopotamus pool, saving 3.4 million litres of water per year by reducing the frequency of changing display water and saving energy by reducing the need for UV water treatment and gas consumption required to heat a new body of water.

The trial will allow the zoo to measure the effectiveness of the technology, with a view to expanding its use across the zoo’s many displays, and complements the water conservation and educational programs already underway.

Melbourne Zoo is one of 17 organisations that will share in $2 million in funding under round seven.

The grants come as part of the Victorian water industry’s commitment to developing new and innovative ‘next-generation’ solutions to water conservation, water recycling and biosolids management.

Smart Water Fund CEO Christine Cussen said that Melbourne Zoo should be proud of the leadership and innovation it has demonstrated in its approach to water conservation.

“Each Smart Water Fund project provides new understanding about how we can use our water resources more sustainably and the Fund is pleased to support these organisations in their efforts to develop and share innovative new ideas.

“A key objective of the fund is to share the innovations and knowledge generated by funded projects throughout their respective industries or sectors. This helps empower others to implement innovative water-saving techniques,” Cussen said.