Awards for WA waterwise businesses

WA Water Minister Terry Redman last week recognised businesses across the state for their efforts to save more than 7.9 billion litres of water in 2011-12 - enough to fill more than 3500 Olympic swimming pools.

The businesses all take part in the Water Corporation’s Water Efficiency Management Plan (WEMP). The water-saving program helps businesses using more than 20 million litres of scheme water per year to reduce water use.

Redman said the program was introduced in 2007 and has grown to include 344 businesses across the state working to reduce their water use.

“These businesses not only saved huge amounts of water, they have demonstrated their commitment to the environment and the sustainable use of water,” he said.

“The 344 businesses involved account for about 37% of non-residential scheme water use - or approximately 34.5 billion litres per year - in Western Australia.

“To save 7.9 billion litres of scheme water in one year is an outstanding result, with the changes made through the program saving 18.5 billion litres over four years.

“This has also saved these businesses around $16 million in water and wastewater charges, proving that being water efficient saves water and money.” 

The Minister presented Platinum Awards (more than 50% improvement in water efficiency) to 14 businesses and Gold Awards (35-50% improvement) to 35 businesses. A total of 37 businesses received Silver Awards (25-35% improvement) and 71 received Bronze Awards (10-25% improvement).

Brookfield Johnson Controls was one of these companies, receiving a Silver Award for reducing water use in Western Australia by 26%. Technology, water re-use strategies, education in efficient water management and water wastage reduction strategies enabled the company to implement a range of innovations including:

• increased use of harvested stormwater
• more efficient cooling systems
• more efficient water usage strategies
• a six-month maintenance program on minor plumbing plant and equipment
• building induction training

Brookfield Johnson Controls’ wider energy conservation drive has delivered expenditure savings of 8% on electricity, 25% on gas and 6% on water this year alone. Statutory Water Corporation meter readings have shown water consumption for the Perth District Courts building has fallen from 23,313 kL per annum to 17,169 kL per annum since 2009.

Judith McCombe, project company representative at the Perth District Courts, said: “Brookfield Johnson Controls ensure the contract is delivered to meet vigorous key performance indicators, client and customer satisfaction. There is a constant drive and enthusiasm from all the Brookfield Johnson Controls team and how they continuously drive improvements through preventative maintenance and energy efficiency initiatives.”

Jane Spellacy, senior services representative - WA, Brookfield Johnson Controls, said: “This award is a great result, recognising our commitment to reducing water use. It’s great to be recognised for our efforts to reduce our scheme water use and our ongoing commitment to sustainability.”

Water Corporation holds free events for businesses on understanding water use and how to save water. Further information about these courses and how businesses can get involved can be found at www.watercorporation.com.au.