By using Calgary-based ExactET's weather-based irrigation system, property owners and managers have saved significant amounts of water, according to 2008 figures.

The most notable local achievement was at Sunridge Business Park. ExactET's partner InstaRain Irrigation converted the development from timer-controlled to weather-based irrigation, which generated water savings of 14.3 million litres, a reduction of 66.9 per cent by using the new technology.

Green-minded owner Dundee Realty Management's initiative equated to energy conservation of more than 14,000 kilowatts of electricity and 3,800 kilograms of carbon dioxide.

Other big savers in the Calgary area include Tonko Realty Advisers, which has installed the system at 16 of its Foothills Industrial properties and decreasing its water frequency by 57.6 per cent; Alberta Research Council office with a saving of 2.2 million litres; Shaw Cable's Barlow Trail building saved 8.6 million litres; and St. Mary's Cathedral had a cost saving of $2,470 by using 1.6 million litres less water over the past year.

David Parker appears Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. he can be
reached at 403-830-4622 or e-mail info@davidparker.ca.
© Copyright (c) The Calgary Herald

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