West Sussex-based Artetch Circuits is encouraging local firms to join the Envirowise Big Splash water efficiency programme after seeing for itself the benefits of cutting water waste.
Now, on the eve of national Water at Work Week (17-21 September) the printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturer is calling on other local firms to do the same - raising profits and lowering environmental impact at the same time.
Alistair Murray, Technical Manager at Artetch Circuits, says: "Water minimisation has always been a high priority for the company because we use a large amount of water in our manufacturing process and effluent is sent to a local sewage works for disposal. Chemical etching processes, in particular, use a substantial amount of water for washing and rinsing.
"Improved monitoring, re-thinking flow rates for rinse lines and engagement of staff in water saving initiatives have all helped us to cut water costs by £3,000 per year and effluent disposal charges by £2,700 per year."
Envirowise Regional Manager for the South East, Holly Firmin, says: "We estimate that UK businesses are sending the financial equivalent of just under 40 bottles of champagne1 down the drain every minute in wasted water. Water at Work Week is the ideal time for businesses to sign-up to The Big Splash and put a stop to this unnecessary waste."
The Envirowise water efficiency campaign allows companies to access free information packs, workshops and interactive tools - as well as a confidential telephone advice line. The results will be improved profitability and reduced environmental impact.
"Since the launch of The Big Splash in June 2004, we have helped UK businesses identify water related cost savings worth more than £8 million. Sussex companies should make sure they grab their share," adds Holly Firmin.
For more information on Water at Work Week or to register your interest in The Big Splash initiative, visit www.envirowise.gov.uk./water or call the Envirowise Advice Line on 0800 585 794.
ENDS
1 Based on the average cost of £25 for a bottle of champagne such as Moet & Chandon, Lanson Black Label or Bollinger from a leading supermarket.
Issues on behalf of Envirowise by Trimedia Harrison Cowley
Media Contacts:
Peter Stilwell, Rachel Kilburn or Rod Dennis at Trimedia Harrison Cowley on 0117 929 2311 or rod.dennis@trimediahc.com
Notes to Editors
About Envirowise
Envirowise is a Government-funded programme dedicated to putting the sustainable use of resources at the heart of UK business practice.
Since 1994 Envirowise has helped UK businesses save over £1bn by enabling them to significantly reduce their environmental footprints.
Envirowise offers businesses of all sizes and sectors a wide range of free, independent and practical advice designed to genuinely improve their processes, profitability and competitiveness. Services include:
- The Environment and Energy Advice Line on 0800 585794
- An encyclopaedic website (www.envirowise.gov.uk) of valuable and relevant information
- Over 200 events each year, from Product Design Workshops to major exhibitions