£30k awarded to boost water efficiency in Glasgow

Water retailer provides vital funding for public sector

GLASGOW’S public sector is set to benefit from a wave of environmental and cost-saving improvements thanks to the latest round of funding from a specialist water efficiency initiative.

This year, Business Stream has awarded £100,000 from its annual Water Efficiency Fund to public sector projects across Scotland, with £30k of the Fund going to projects based in Glasgow. The aim of the Fund is to support organisations across Scotland to use water more efficiently.

Business Stream, headquartered in Edinburgh, established its Public Sector Scotland (PSS) Water Efficiency Fund in 2020 as an annual initiative to assist organisations, such as local councils, charities, schools, colleges and universities, to deliver environmental efficiencies and financial savings through water efficiency projects.

This year’s judging panel, made up of senior representatives from Business Stream and with adjudication from Scottish Procurement, reviewed 32 applications totalling more than half a million pounds in value.

Jo Dow, Chief Executive of Business Stream said: “The number and quality of submissions received this year has been really encouraging. It highlights the commitment of public sector organisations to drive sustainability improvements and reduce their environmental footprint.”

The awarded projects are expected to be implemented in the coming months, beneficiaries of this year’s fund include University of Strathclyde who will use their £11,000 to install mini chillers and tap aerators, and Glasgow Kelvin College, who will use their £13,430 to install cistern units and urinal controls.

Jeanette Evans, Vice Principal at Glasgow Kelvin College, said: “We’re really pleased to have received funding through the Water Efficiency Fund. The installation of cistern units and smart water controls will allow us to significantly improve the management of our water usage, reduce operational costs, and contribute to our sustainability objectives. This investment not only supports the College in meeting its environmental responsibilities but also ensures that resources are used more efficiently for the benefit of our students, staff, and the wider community.”

Other projects benefitting in the Glasgow area include Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and DBC Kensington SCIO a community facility for music and the arts in the Bearsden-Milngavie and wider Glasgow areas.

Across Scotland, other projects benefiting from the fund include Scottish Fire and Rescue, who will use their funding to conduct water audits and NHS Forth Valley, who plan to supply and install 40 water butts at their sites.

This year’s awards continue to build on the momentum of previous rounds. In 2024, the fund was doubled from £50,000 to £100,000 to meet growing demand.

All projects have been selected based on their potential for lasting savings and the strength of their delivery plans. Each will receive ongoing support from Business Stream to ensure successful implementation and maximum benefit.