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New EPA Program Saves Dollars and Makes Sense

Release Date: 06/12/2006
Contact Information: Jennifer Wood, (202) 564-4355 / wood.jennifer@epa.gov; Contacto en español: Lina Younes, younes.lina @epa.gov

(San Antonio, Texas - June 12, 2006) WaterSense, a new water efficiency program launched by EPA today, will educate American consumers on making smart water choices that save money and maintain high environmental standards without compromising performance.

"Efficient products and informed consumers lead to smart water use. EPA's WaterSense program will provide water solutions that are a win-win for our wallets and our environment. WaterSense just makes sense," said EPA Administrator Stephen L. Johnson. "WaterSense advances President Bush's cooperative conservation goals through education, not regulation - spreading the ethic of water efficiency and promoting the tools to make wise water choices."

The WaterSense program aims to raise awareness about the importance of water efficiency, ensure the performance of water-efficient products and provide good consumer information. The WaterSense label will be easily identified on products and services that perform at least 20 percent more efficiently than their less efficient counterparts.

Easily corrected household water leaks frequently rob consumers of eight percent of their water bill. At least 30 percent of water used by household irrigation systems is lost through wind evaporation and improper design, installation or maintenance. The average household adopting water efficient products and practices can save 30,000 gallons per year – enough to supply a year of drinking water for 150 of their neighbors.

Manufacturers can certify these products meet EPA criteria for water efficiency and performance by following testing protocols specific to each product category. In addition, products will be independently tested to ensure EPA specifications are met. These products will be available to families and businesses early next year.

Information about the WaterSense water efficiency program: epa.gov/watersense