BMP #2 - Information and Education Programs

Background

Educating users is very important if water efficiency technologies and methods are to be successful. Experience shows that it is not enough to install a retrofit or water saving technology in a facility. New operation procedures, retrofits, and replacements are most effective when employees, contractors and the public know what the new technology or methods are and how to use them properly.

An additional benefit to water efficiency is positive public opinion. If your facility is doing its part to save the community resources, let them know. Informing the public about your facility's commitment to reduce waste is good news. The news media is often interested in facilities that take a proactive stand on water efficiency. For more information on this and other FEMP Water Efficiency Best Management Practices (BMPs), please see the resources section.

Internal Options

Establish a user-friendly hot line or other systems to report leaks or other wastes of water and energy. Repair leaks promptly to encourage continued participation.
Keep employees informed about your commitment to water efficiency, your ongoing improvement programs, and any program successes. Start a water column in your building or agency newsletter featuring how much water has been saved through the water management program. Send information via e-mail.
Share information with employees on how water is used at your facility, and how much water is used for each application. This will help them understand how their actions can help reduce water use in specific areas.
Place signs and placards near new equipment so it is easy to understand the new technology and how to use it properly.
Start a suggestion and incentive system to recognize and encourage water saving in your facility. Consider distributing efficiency devices. Communicate progress towards achieving water use reduction goals.
Conduct regular training workshops for those persons that will be implementing the BMPs, including maintenance personnel to keep them up to date on operational changes and maintenance procedures.
Integrate water management into your facility Environmental Management System (EMS). Consider water use as an environmental aspect under your EMS. Your existing EMS team and procedures can serve as a powerful method to involve and train employees, and monitor and communicate progress.

External Options

Work with local utilities to develop comprehensive programs and share your successes with other similar facilities.
Invite members of the local news media to tour your facility and see first-hand the efficiency program and successes you have achieved.
Create displays presenting your water savings results for posting in your lobby and other public reception areas.
Develop Web sites, brochures, and other materials for distribution to employees and the public describing your program, goals, and successes.