TerraCottem® soil conditioner which is marketed exclusively in the UK by Inturf, has been awarded the Waterwise Marque in recognition of its contribution to the reduction of water usage.

TerraCottem® is the original proprietary mixture of more than twenty hydroabsorbent and nutritive components that work in synergy to significantly increase the capability of soils and growing media to retain and provide water and nutrients, to improve plant and root growth, and to reduce the amount of water necessary to create high-quality plants and turf.

Originally developed by scientists from the University of Ghent in Belgium to combat desertification in U. N. and other humanitarian projects in Africa, the product is used today by professionals and consumers in more than forty-five countries worldwide to improve the quality and success of their work while reducing water consumption, in landscaping, sport and golf turf, horticulture, reforestation and gardening.

“TerraCottem® is now at work in gardens, nurseries, sports stadia and indeed on our own turf farms,” says Alex Edwards, joint managing director of Inturf.

“The product works more effectively than any single polymer or fertilizer product to produce astonishing results and, in effect, to give the benefit of 15 litres of moisture for every 10 litres of water actually used. It is useful in reducing waters usage at any time and in a wide range of applications. At times of water shortage it is, quite simply, a boon.”

The winners of the Waterwise Marque - the first scheme in the UK to highlight water efficient products - were formally awarded by Joanna Yarrow, Director, Beyond Green at an awards ceremony at Oxford University last night.

The Marque is awarded annually to products which reduce water wastage or raise the awareness of water efficiency. Fifteen Marques have been awarded across the broad spectrum of products including dishwashers, an aerated showerhead, water storing gels for the garden, a waterless urinal, a new dual flush toilet, drought resistant turf, a device to recycle your bathwater, a garden drip irrigation system, a waterless carwash, tap flow restrictors and devices to reduce the amount of water used when flushing your toilet.

Environment Minister, Ian Pearson says “I welcome the Waterwise Marque which will raise the profile of water efficiency, help the consumer to make informed choices in product selection, and reward those manufacturers who are taking a lead in water saving. It is good for the environment, good for consumers and good for business.”