U.S. Water News
WASHINGTON -- Such high-profile hotel groups as Westin
Hyatt, and ITT Sheraton are among charter members of the
Water Alliances for Voluntary Efficiency (WAVE) Program of
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The
non-regulatory partnership program is intended to assist the
hotel/motel industry, and eventually other industries, with
the reduction of water use through increased efficiency.
Charter partners in the WAVE Program control 584 U.S. hotel
properties and over 210,000 guest rooms, said Kevin Rosseel,
EPA director of the program. Water use efficiency measures
of the program can reduce water and sewer costs by 30
percent, Rosseel pointed out, with a typical payback period
of less than three years.
"As supplies shrink and demands rise, competition among
industrial, agricultural, and domestic users of available
water resources is increasing," he stated. "Through WAVE and
other programs, EPA seeks to ensure that adequate U.S. water
resources remain available to support both human and
environmental needs," added Rosseel.
Partners, supporters, and endorsers make up the three
general categories of WAVE members, he pointed out. Partners
include hotels, motels, inns, and other commercial and
institutional water users, while water service companies and
equipment suppliers typify active supporters of the program.
Endorsers usually represent trade associations, professional
institutes, organizations, and industry boards, Rosseel
said.
After joining the program, partners conduct a survey of
existing water-saving equipment and install upgrades within
an agreed-to timeframe. Progress reports and program results
are reported to EPA, and members benefit from nationwide
public service advertising, in-room promotional materials,
and other public relations efforts. Members also receive
free water-use analysis software, technical support, and
access to a nationwide help line. Information on the program
is available from Rosseel at (202) 260-7288 or Fax (202)
260-1827.
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