Water efficiency labelling to save six billion cubic metres

A new system to be introduced next March will label products based on their water efficiency and usage, reported ChinaNews. Companies will self-report data, which will be confirmed through inspections. The labels will help consumers understand which products are most efficient and incentivise companies to develop better products. China already has a strong track record on product efficiency labelling. It was introduced 12 years ago to cover five major areas and 35 product types, such as household appliances. The system has saved 440 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity. Initial estimates show that the new water labelling scheme will lead to annual savings of six billion cubic metres of water, the equivalent of 12 billion yuan of water fees.