In this recording of TOTO’s “Flowing Forward: Sustainable Solutions in Plumbing Trends, Innovations, and Challenges” Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) 2024 panel discussion, you will hear from a group of plumbing industry leaders on matters including industry codes and standards, testing, policymaking, and community engagement.

Each topic feeds into an overarching conversation on how new industry technological innovations and policies are affecting environmental sustainability and water conservation. The innovations and policies discussed span lowered water flow rates, public health and safety programs, the industry-wide move toward eco-responsible plumbing, and more.

Panelists include leaders from The International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), Plumbing Manufacturers International (PMI), legislative and government environmental sustainability advocates, and respected plumbing industry veterans.

Moving into pivotal moments in policy, the conversation turns to policies and regulations and their effects on the market. How will products already on the shelves be handled, and what impact will this have on manufacturers, retailers, and suppliers?

As we continue our discussion on policy, the panelists touch on work being done with the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to bring over 42,000 water-efficient products front and center for consumers. Since 2006 and the introduction of the EPA WaterSense program there have been 7.5 trillion gallons of water saved. In 2022 alone, it was just over 1 trillion. However, budgetary restrictions apply, and though the EPA has brought about great changes in environmentally sustainable standards — a continued commitment to water conservation from within the plumbing industry is needed to maintain this positive trajectory.

Despite these environmental needs seeming simple and straightforward, they become complex issues when integrating the goals of government, the private sector, and the public sector. Our experts on the panel also address these nuanced challenges and discuss the steps being taken to meet them.

Packed full of stats, useful factoids, and industry predictions — this discussion allows you a chance to peer behind the sustainable plumbing curtain and uncover the obstacles, successes, and concerns held by leaders who have devoted their lives to securing the future of our environment and the industry they are committed to protecting.

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Resources:

Gallon for Gallon: Unveiling the Eco-Truth of Luxury Low-flow vs. Traditional Toilets: https://bit.ly/4amknij

The Economics of TOTO Touchless ECOPOWER and IOT-enabled Restroom Fixtures: A Deep Dive: https://bit.ly/4cq6rpp

TOTO’s Commitment to Sustainability: https://bit.ly/43rsKqA

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Video Time Stamps:

0:00 Discussion Topic and Panelist Introductions
5:19 Technological Innovations and Industry Milestones
8:05 Environmental and Social Sustainability - Industry Impact (opening remarks)
11:14 Federal and State Industry Support
12:59 Recycled Water Use
16:07 Public and Private Sector Partnerships
19:54 Product Standards
21:13 Environmental and Social Sustainability - Industry Impact (cont.)
23:01 Federal and State Legislation - Impact on Corporations
38:14 The Role of Education in the Quest for Sustainable Plumbing - Policymaker Engagement
44:55 Audience Q&A

#environmentalsustainability #waterconservation #plumbing #sustainablemanufacturing