The world leaders gathering at COP26 in Glasgow, UK are looking for positive headlines to demonstrate their commitment to climate change but whilst they are big on high level strategies, it is the local and collective commitments that will bring about change, so says UWLA MD Yvonne Orgill.
Yvonne made her comments as the conference moves into its second week, with some commitments and pledges being confirmed against a backdrop of the need to act now.
“It’s good to see there is agreement by all that action is needed today, not tomorrow,” says Yvonne. “The time for talking is over, we have to work together to make things happen and facilitate change.
“If there were any doubters before this, then I am hopeful that the noise created by COP26, will finally bring them on board.
“The UWLA has been working with the European bathroom industry to drive forward the message that everyone can play their part, from the manufacturers that create innovative water and energy efficient products, to the retailers and installers that promote the water matters messages to consumers
“By consistently advising our members of the direction of political decisions and water efficiency initiatives across Europe, we have stayed ahead of the game. I am proud that the European bathroom industry can demonstrate its commitment with better manufacturing processes, reduced waste, and elimination of harmful substances, to deliver bathroom products that use less water and energy.
“Companies that use and promote the Unified Water Label are raising awareness of how much water and energy is used in the ‘in-use’ phase, keeping sustainability at the heart of our industry.
“Our collective efforts to communicate the link between using water, energy and carbon wisely empowers consumers to play their part, and make more informed choices, which will result in behaviour change for the benefit of the planet.
The Swedish climate activist great Greta Thunberg has said that change will not come from the conference in Glasgow but from individuals showing leadership.
We hope that leadership and collective responsibility across the board will result in many small changes generating the significant change that is required.”
