Retailers can guide consumers to make more informed choices about water use was a key message from the first Water Matters virtual conference, hosted by the Unified Water Label.

The conference, which brought together representatives from different sectors to explore how the bathroom industry can work together to inform customers about water use, was attended by an international audience of over 150 delegates.

CEO of the Unified Water Label Association Yvonne Orgill said: “There was clear agreement from our contributors that the world is changing and the environmental impact of how we use water in the home is increasingly important.  All agreed that collectively we can take the lead, being proactive today in order to protect the water supply for future generations.

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“Our panel discussion included an architect and a manufacturer that both supported the Unified Water Label as a smart tool, with presentations from two major international and European retailers, confirming their commitment to promote the label.

“Our guest speaker Ben Keene spoke passionately about how best to engage the consumer in the Water is Life message, offering a fresh approach that focused on making them feel good about playing their part.”

She continued: “Those in the supply chain that have a direct interface with the consumer, such as retailers, have a unique opportunity to take up this challenge and influence and educate consumers on the options available.

“They are well placed to promote products that are UWL registered and advise on the performance aspects, reassuring consumers that water saving does not mean reduced performance.

“There is also a commercial gain for those that can offer quality products and advice to those consumers looking to make the right environmental choices when investing in their home.”

IKEA has already joined the Water Label, meaning it will be on display in its stores around the world.