The Unified Water Label Association (UWLA) made a number of changes to the board of directors at its open forum meeting, in Aveiro, Portugal.

Lead of public affairs at Hansgrohe Group Fiona Félix and Henk Gieskens, head of client partnerships, installer – elemental, were co-opted onto the board of directors.

While Markus Gantenbein, head of materials laborary from Geberit takes over from head of standardisation, approvals and regulatory affairs at Geberit Georg Taubert on his retirement.

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UWLA president Carlos Velazquez welcomed participants and UWLA MD Yvonne Orgill gave an update on activity and progress.

Yvonne Orgill commented: “Market transformation is happening and the UWLA is influencing at all levels.

“From grass roots level with young people in schools, through retailers, merchants and installers, to government bodies and associations.

“The board agreed that we will review the water efficiency grades for the scheme, to reflect the positive market transformation over the last few years. New improved grades will be available in 2025.

Carlos Velazquez added: “We have made great progress, industry is active, engaged and fully supportive.

“We are delighted that the transition to bring Anqip onto the Unified Water Label is now complete and warmly invite all members in Portugal to register their products.

“Next year will be an important year to build on the strong growth we have experienced so far.

“We have the products and the label, and we also have the solutions.

“Greater visibility in the marketplace will secure our success and leadership on water efficiency.”

The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) is planning to legislate the use of a Water Label, and UWLA recently published a manifesto showing how it meets Government goals for water efficiency.