University of Waterloo’s water efficiency upgrades earned them the Region’s Water Efficiency Excellence Award

Waterloo Region – The Region of Waterloo is proud to recognize the University of Waterloo with the 2023 Water Efficiency Excellence Award. The award was presented at the Regional Council meeting on November 20, 2024.

“The work being done by the University of Waterloo to reduce its water use is significant,” said Regional Chair Karen Redman. “As the largest water user in the Region, the university is leading by example in making real changes to reduce its overall water use; changes that will also save money and protect our community’s water supply.”

The award recognizes the university’s work with the Region’s WET (Water Efficient Technology) Program to complete major water efficiency upgrades in 2023, including installing 4,900 water-efficient shower heads and aerators in several residence buildings. This project reduced water use by over 23,000 cubic metres per year, which is enough water to supply 100 homes. The university invested $270,000 in the project and received a grant of $26,700 from the Region after recognizing actual water savings.

“Working with the Region of Waterloo’s WET Program has helped us invest in sustainable and environmentally friendly operations,” said Stepanka Elias, Executive Director of Facilities at the University of Waterloo. “We are honoured to have our work recognized by the Region of Waterloo with this award.”

The Region’s WET Program provides resources and funding to help local organizations reduce water use. Water conservation helps provide safe, clean drinking water for our growing population.

To learn more about the Region’s water efficiency programs at regionofwaterloo.ca/conservation.

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