The Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) has voiced its “significant” concerns on the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra)’s plans for water efficiency labelling.

The decision to bypass the well-established Unified Water Label (UWL) system in favour of a new scheme is being described as a “shocking waste” by industry leaders.

According to the recent announcement, Defra will launch mandatory water efficiency labelling regulations next year, with implementation by 2025.

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It is a move the BMA has called “”painfully unrealistic” given the need to develop a new technical criteria, retest products and get the whole supply chain onboard.

The focus of the scheme will be exclusively on water use, excluding energy-related insights, otherwise BMA states it is “almost identical” to the existing Unified Water Label.

It will include products such as toilets, urinals, taps, showers (including electric models), dishwashers, washing machines, and washer-dryers, most of which are already covered by the UWL.

BMA states there is also an intention to build a new product database, neglecting the comprehensive existing UWL system.

In addition, the announcement included a necessity for third-party testing confirming adherence to the Water Supply (Water Fittings) 1999 for product labelling.

Although the BMA recognises the Government’s intent to champion water efficiency, the decision to apparently overlook the UWL, it reports as a glaring oversight.

CEO of BMA Tom Reynolds stated, “It’s deeply concerning to see such a redundant reinvention of the wheel when the Unified Water Label offers a viable and efficient solution.

“The cost savings alone, in contrast to the proposed £20 million expense for the new scheme, should have prompted a closer look at the UWL.”

However, the BMA is appealing to the Government to revisit its stance in the upcoming phases of the project.

It cites rising popularity and trust in the UWL since Defra’s consultation over a year ago, providing a “clear” opportunity for officials to leverage its strengths to realise their policy objectives.

Given the current ambiguity, BMA’s strong recommendation to manufacturers is to maintain their allegiance and utilisation of the UWL until a clearer path emerges.

The BMA remains steadfast in its mission to enhance water efficiency and will continue its proactive engagement in discussions, aiming for the best interests of the industry and end-users.