The Saudi Arabian Standards Organization (SASO) has implemented the "Technical Regulation for Water Rationalization Tools" and the SASO Water Efficiency Labeling Program for faucets, showers, and toilets based on their water consumption rates (high or low). This regulation was approved by the SASO Board of Directors in Meeting No. 156 on September 16, 1437 H (June 21, 2016 AD).
Water is one of the most undervalued and often overlooked resources in the world. It is sometimes wasted due to our own negligence, and at times, the tools, machinery, and equipment around us contribute to its misuse. We must always keep in mind that conserving water not only benefits the environment but also reduces the energy required to process and transport it to homes, businesses, farms, and communities, thereby decreasing pollution.
In Saudi Arabia's arid environment, water is not just a resource but a vital necessity. Effective water management is crucial due to the country’s limited natural water supplies and heavy reliance on desalination. To address this, the Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization (SASO) has launched the SASO Water Efficiency Labeling Program. This robust framework aims to promote water efficiency across various industries and aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader sustainable development goals, where water conservation is a national priority.
The efficiency ratings in this program reflect different levels of water consumption efficiency. Products with lower ratings use more water compared to those with higher ratings, which are designed to be more water-efficient. This system encourages manufacturers to innovate and improve their products to achieve higher ratings and attract environmentally conscious consumers.
The SASO Water Efficiency Labeling Program encompasses a wide range of products, ensuring comprehensive coverage and impact.
The SASO Water Efficiency Labeling Program aims to foster a culture of water conservation through strict guidelines and clear labeling. By launching this initiative, SASO seeks to:
Water efficiency involves maximizing the use of every drop rather than merely reducing consumption. The program encourages manufacturers to design products that utilize water more effectively. Whether it’s a residential faucet, a commercial cooling system, or agricultural equipment, the goal is to optimize water use without compromising performance or functionality.
A key focus of the program is to minimize water waste. Products eligible for labeling must meet specific criteria that reduce unnecessary water use. This not only helps preserve this vital resource but also mitigates the environmental impact of excessive water consumption.
The program is built on a standardized labeling system that provides consumers with clear information about a product’s water efficiency.
Each product covered by the program is assigned a label indicating its efficiency rating. These labels are typically displayed prominently, making it easy for consumers to identify water-efficient products. The labels often include details on efficiency metrics and water consumption, helping consumers make informed purchasing decisions.
Home appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, are significant consumers of water. The program includes stringent guidelines to ensure these appliances use water efficiently. The labels on these appliances help consumers choose models that are both water- and energy-efficient, contributing to overall sustainability.
Water efficiency can greatly impact common fixtures like toilets, showers, and other sanitary equipment. The program's standards for these fixtures are designed to reduce water flow rates while maintaining performance, leading to substantial water savings.
In industrial settings, water is heavily used for processes like production, cleaning, and cooling. The initiative aims to reduce the industrial sector’s water footprint by setting guidelines that promote the development of water-efficient industrial machinery.