The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation has officially announced an extension of its partnership with Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE) to support research and improve the irrigation infrastructure for a variety of landscapes. According to certain reports, the stated development will mark the introduction of multiple new projects, beginning from a new guidebook for smart practices in utility-sponsored residential landscape and irrigation programs. Considering these long existing programs have now outgrown your traditional financial rebate models, the guidebook will try and match that growth by helping water utilities and city water departments design and implement landscape transformation, as well as irrigation programs that are geared towards saving water and enhancing the general environment. Another major detail in the context of this renewed partnership is concerned with a specialized new research project. This research project will basically collect and synthesize current knowledge of behavior-based strategies that can help people use less water on household landscapes and just irrigate smarter on a holistic note. Talk a little about these strategies, they will use insights from psychology and behavioral science to help individuals make more optimal decisions regarding when and how much to water, something which can eventually go on to enhance their strategies in other areas like replacing irrigation equipment or transforming landscapes. Making the stated research project even more important is the fact that it will pack together real-life experiments so to pilot the promised behavior-based strategies before they become generally accessible.
“We’re so excited to continue our partnership with AWE,” said Brian Herrington, president of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation. “We’ve seen firsthand the benefits of water conservation research and look forward to the results of our new planned project with AWE. Collaborations with leaders like AWE are important to making a positive impact on the world.”
Founded in 2007, Alliance for Water Efficiency has risen up as a North American 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to sustainable and efficient use of water. An example of its current stature is evident in how the organization currently works with more than 500 member agencies, a number comprising of water utilities, water conservation professionals in business and industry, policymakers, nonprofits, and researchers. Not just partnerships, AWE also brings to the fore innovative technical resources that facilitate smooth adoption of water conservation programs.
“We are excited to explore the wide range of innovative programs that exist and then synthesize the smart practices into a singular resource that utilities can reference in building out programs in their communities. We are particularly interested in focusing on efforts that have an eye toward advancing equity and improving access to programs. We look forward to digging into the data in the coming months and are hopeful about the impact this study can have in the field,” said Liesel Hans, PhD, Director of Programs at Alliance for Water Efficiency.
As for the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation, it has its case rooted in inspiring, connecting, and cultivating a community of purpose. With a special focus towards planet protection, the organization is known for leading the charge on environmental efforts through grants, endowments, and multi-year capital gifts.
