15/6/10, PENANG: The Penang State Government and Perbadanan Bekalan Air Pulau Pinang Sdn Bhd (PBAPP) will issue certificates of recognition to “water-friendly” organisations under its “Aqua Save” programme.
Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said the first certificates would be issued from the 4th quarter of 2010.
“Our objectives are to recognise water-friendly organisations and to encourage water efficiency in a water-stressed state. Penang is a small state and we have limited water resources. We want to create awareness and get organisations involved in sustaining good water supply for Penang,” he said while launching the programme today.
Lim said the total water consumption in Penang had increased by 38% since 1999. Penangites, he noted, used 286 liters of water per person per day at home; as compared to 155 liters in Singapore and 165 liters as recommended by the United Nations.
“Of course, we can explore new water resources or build more infrastructure. However, the cost will amount to billions of ringgit that will ultimately result in skyrocketing water tariffs.
“At the same time, we are highly dependent on Sungai Muda as a daily raw water resource. Kedah draws water from the river upstream. We draw our water downstream. In this age of global climate change, we do not know if the next drought will result in a water crisis,” he added.
Lim said participation in the “Aqua Save” programme was open to all companies, including factories, hotels and commercial enterprises, as well as education institutions, government departments and non-business oriented organisations in Penang.
Organisations who wish to participate can download an on-line form from the PBAPP website (www.pba.com.my). Upon submission of a completed form, a verification committee will evaluate the participating organisation via a standardised process that includes site visits.
“Our evaluation will be based on the amount of water saving achieved; efforts to promote water-saving; innovation and cost-effectiveness of methods used; as well as any other policies procedures, activities and mechanisms that support water conservation,” Lim said.
Successful participants will be awarded with a certificate. They will also enjoy positive publicity and the right to use the award logo on their company and promotional materials. Certification will be issued or renewed annually upon application. PBAPP is also considering a special award for organisations that can successfully sustain their certification for three consecutive years
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