PUB, the national water agency, thanks Mr Paul Chan Poh Hoi for his feedback ("Save water but set realistic goal in hot, humid S'pore"; last Saturday).
We agree with Mr Chan on the need for water efficiency.
PUB promotes this concept through mandatory water-saving measures and encouraging voluntary changes in water usage habits. For example, the Mandatory Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme (MWELS) for taps, mixers, flushing cisterns and washing machines was introduced in 2009.
The rating scheme enables consumers to make informed choices when purchasing water fittings and appliances.
From October this year, only washing machines with a minimum two-tick efficiency rating can be sold in Singapore. More water- and energy-efficient appliances are available locally.
Furthermore, apparently trivial changes in water usage habits, such as turning off the showerhead while soaping, washing clothes on a full load and reusing rinse water for toilet flushing or mopping of floors, have a significant impact on water savings.
Singapore has managed to reduce its household water consumption from 165 litres a day in 2003 to the current 150.4 litres per person per day. As Singaporeans increasingly embrace water conservation as a way of life, the target of 140 litres by 2030 is a realistic goal.
Members of the public who wish to make their homes more water-efficient can call PUB's 24-hour call centre on 1800-284-6600 for advice; they can also request free thimbles for their taps and showerheads.
Michael Toh
Director
Water Supply Network Department
PUB
We agree with Mr Chan on the need for water efficiency.
PUB promotes this concept through mandatory water-saving measures and encouraging voluntary changes in water usage habits. For example, the Mandatory Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme (MWELS) for taps, mixers, flushing cisterns and washing machines was introduced in 2009.
The rating scheme enables consumers to make informed choices when purchasing water fittings and appliances.
From October this year, only washing machines with a minimum two-tick efficiency rating can be sold in Singapore. More water- and energy-efficient appliances are available locally.
Furthermore, apparently trivial changes in water usage habits, such as turning off the showerhead while soaping, washing clothes on a full load and reusing rinse water for toilet flushing or mopping of floors, have a significant impact on water savings.
Singapore has managed to reduce its household water consumption from 165 litres a day in 2003 to the current 150.4 litres per person per day. As Singaporeans increasingly embrace water conservation as a way of life, the target of 140 litres by 2030 is a realistic goal.
Members of the public who wish to make their homes more water-efficient can call PUB's 24-hour call centre on 1800-284-6600 for advice; they can also request free thimbles for their taps and showerheads.
Michael Toh
Director
Water Supply Network Department
PUB
