Proposed Implementation of Mandatory Water Efficiency Labelling

In December 2009, the Government decided to proceed with a water efficiency labelling scheme (WELS). Consumer Information Standard (Water Efficiency Labelling) Regulations will be put in place requiring suppliers to provide consumers with information about the water-efficiency of 6 classes of major water-using products – washing machines, dishwashers, urinals, toilets, taps and showers.

The water efficiency information must be set out on a label provided when the products are on display and include a comparative star rating of a product’s water efficiency, across its class, and its water consumption (in litres per minute, cycle or flush). The information will enable consumers to choose products that best suit their needs taking into account that reduced water use, particularly hot water use, can save on household energy costs. The information can also help consumers with restricted or tank water supplies to conserve water.

The scheme is intended to provide information to consumers to aid in their decision making and not to restrict product choice or availability. The information provided through WELS also enables consumers to play a part in managing demands on water resources and storage and supply infrastructure.

The WELS will not include a product database or a requirement to include water efficiency information in advertising, as previously proposed. Not having these requirements will reduce compliance costs for government and industry with minimal effect on consumers.

The work on WELS has been jointly undertaken by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs and the Ministry for the Environment. It is proposed that regulations will be in place by mid 2010 and provide a 12 month transition period, after which product imported into or manufactured in New Zealand must be labelled and a three year transition period, starting when the regulations are put in place, for existing product to be cleared or labelled.

For more information please visit the Ministry for the Environment website – www.mfe.govt.nz

Documents

• 2009 - Regulatory Impact Statement for amended regulations

• 2008 - Regulatory Impact Statement for regulations

• 2007 June - Summary of Submissions Received on the Discussion Document for the Proposed Implementation of Mandatory Water Efficiency Labelling

• 2007 June - New Water Efficiency Labelling in the Pipeline: Media Release

• 2007 June - Proposed Implementation of Mandatory Water Efficiency Labelling: Discussion Document

  This discussion document sets out the proposal for a water efficiency labelling regime for the sale, lease, hire or hire purchase of washing machines, dishwashers, toilets, showers, taps and urinals.

  Submissions on the proposal closed 10 August 2007.