City water machines to cut waste
New high-tech water machines that dispense mirco-filtered still and sparkling water at a small cost are being tested in Perth.
In an Australian first, the City of Perth has installed the first ProAcqua water machine in Forrest Place.
The dispensers have been a success in many European cities.
Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi said the new machines were a hygienic alternative to the conventional water fountain.
"Not only are the ProAcqua water machines cleaner, they also reduce wasteful plastic consumption by encouraging the use of reuseable water bottles," Ms Scaffidi said.
"They will also save people a considerable amount of money, as refilling their water bottle will be cheaper than buying a new plastic bottle of water."
The council is testing one unit at Forrest Place with a second planned for the Perth train station concourse.
ProAcqua chief executive Joe Muscara said the water machines were more environmentally friendly than buying bottled water.
Until tomorrow, the machines will offer free water, with staff on hand to tell people how to use the dispenser and recharge associated smart cards.
Thereafter, users will pay 25¢ for 500ml, 40¢ for one litre and 50¢ for 1.5L.
