The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is now accepting nominations for the 2008 Water Efficiency Leader Awards to recognize organizations and individuals who demonstrate outstanding leadership and innovation in water efficiency.

Nominations are due August 29.

Winners will be chosen by a panel of national water experts and based on three criteria: leadership, innovation, and water saved.

"We encourage organizations and individuals who are saving water, energy and money for our nation's families and communities to apply for the 2008 Water Efficiency Leader Awards," said Benjamin H. Grumbles, EPA's assistant administrator for water. "Together, we are proving innovative technology and environmental stewardship can help conserve our country's greatest liquid asset."

The Water Efficiency Leader Awards promote a nationwide ethic of water efficiency, which is critical to helping our growing economy and improving our quality of life.

The importance of water efficiency is also exemplified by WaterSense, a partnership program started by EPA in 2006 to educate American consumers on making smart water choices that save money, water and energy, and maintain high environmental standards without compromising performance.

For more information, visit the 2008 Water Efficiency Leader Awards webpage.

7/11/2008