Non-residential programs

Non-residential programs handbook

Businesses, services and industry are at the heart and centre of our cities and towns across NSW, and water is critical to many of them. Non-residential demand varies significantly across the state but can account for up to 60% of a utility’s water use.

Engaging the non-residential sector with a targeted program can offer:

• cost-effective water savings
• improved business productivity and competitiveness
• more resilient businesses that are better prepared for periods of water security.

The Non-residential programs handbook is designed as a resource for water utilities to successfully engage this important sector with targeted water efficiency initiatives. It highlights the benefits, drivers and challenges of working with the sector alongside handy tips and advice. It also offers an accessible and practical guide on implementing, monitoring and evaluating the initiatives in line with the NSW Water Efficiency Framework.

A series of workshops with staff from Hunter Water, Central Coast Council, Rous County Council, Tweed Shire Council, Tamworth Regional Council, Coffs Harbour City Council, Clarence Valley Council, and Eurobodalla Shire Council informed the development of the handbook.

Best-practice guidelines for sporting fields

Sport is part of our culture. NSW is home to about 4,850 sporting fields that occupy about 5,960 hectares. With care, we can ensure our natural turf fields continue to:

• accommodate more sport and recreation and deliver better quality playing surfaces
• be more resilient to climate extremes including floods and drought
• be more efficient with irrigation and make use of suitable alternative water sources to reduce potable water use.