Westport has been selected by Irish Water to pilot the utility’s new Sustainable Water Towns Initiative in partnership with Chambers Ireland.
The initiative is being rolled out by Irish Water following the successful launch of the ‘Irish Water Certified Water Stewardship Programme’ last month.
Irish Water said the initiative is one of a number of ways that Irish Water is supporting businesses to drive down their water consumption and save money on their bills.
As part of the pilot, members of Westport Chamber have been taking a Water Conservation Pledge ahead of a masterclass on water conservation for businesses being delivered by Irish Water.
"The aim of the masterclass is to offer water conservation tips for Westport’s thriving industry and diverse range of businesses and outline how they can avail of free online training and new green credentials," explained Christine Crawford, Business Communications and Marketing Lead, Irish Water, adding: "Since we announced the pilot, businesses in Westport have been quick to take the Water Conservation Pledge, which gives a clear demonstration of Westport Chamber’s growing reputation and leadership on climate action and water stewardship."
Michael Lennon, Managing Director of Westport Woods Hotel and a member of the Irish Hotel Federation’s sustainability committee, was one of the first Westport businesses to take the Water Conservation Pledge. His hotel has a long history of implementing environmentally-friendly practices and has won several awards.
"Conserving water not only helps protect your local supply – it can also protect the environment, boost your reputation as a business, and very importantly reduce your bills," explained Michael.
"I am appealing to all businesses in Mayo to take the Water Conservation Pledge, not just in Westport, and to follow up with the free online Water Conservation Training provided by Irish Water. The time commitment for both is only a matter of minutes but the results in terms of a reduction in bills and an extension of your green credentials will have far-reaching benefits," he added.
Irish Water’s specialised training provides business owners with the knowledge and expertise to lower water consumption and reduce operating costs while protecting the environment. Small changes such as identifying water waste on site, setting a baseline for water use, raising awareness amongst staff and customers or upgrading to water-efficient, devices can help to save water and money.
Geraldine Horkan, CEO Westport Chamber, added: "Westport Chamber is encouraging our members to move to more environmentally responsible water management practices and Irish Water’s Certified Water Stewardship Programme is providing best practice training to support businesses to use water sustainably, in a way that benefits people and nature.
"We are delighted to have been chosen by Irish Water to pilot their Sustainable Water Towns’ Initiative. Westport businesses have proven they are innovative and when it comes to water conservation we will be the leaders."
Irish Water has developed three steps to support businesses to move to more sustainable water management. The first step is the Water Conservation Pledge which only takes minutes to complete. This is followed by free online Water Conservation Training, and finally, businesses can enrol and become a Certified Water Steward. Businesses can find out more information on the Water Conservation for Business Hub at www.water.ie
