The Master Plumbers and Mechanical Services Association of Australia (MPMSAA) this week announced its Green Plumbers Program will be expanded internationally, with the first agreement being signed in New Zealand this week.
Executive Director of the MPMSAA Ray Herbert said that for the past five years the organisation has been running an extensive environmental training program in response to climate change through its Green Plumbers program.
"The plumbing industry internationally has faced a decade of unprecedented change to meet the challenge of climate change and water shortages and the consolidating of international resources and intellectual capital will provide a stronger industry framework," Mr Herbert said.
Mr Herbert said that the training program, the result of consumer research showing people wanted environmental advice and solutions from plumbers, has resulted in some 5000 trained and accredited GreenPlumbers employed by 2400 plumbing businesses across Australia.
"The plumbing industry in both Australia and New Zealand is the major channel to market to deliver both energy and water reform at the front line as plumbers have the direct contact with the customer and end user."
"In Australia there is an increase in on site energy efficient and water saving installations. These include solar water heaters, rainwater tanks, water efficient toilets and showerheads, and an increasing number of grey water and recycled water systems increasing the need for training and professional development within the plumbing industry."
Mr Herbert said that the success of energy and water reform long term and the introduction of improved plumbing solutions to deliver savings and greenhouse gas reduction will rely on new technologies, new products and quality installations as promoted by the GreenPlumber program.
