Villeroy & Boch at ISH 2009: Blue Responsibility
Blue Responsibility – comprehensive commitment to ecological sustainability
In 2009, the year in which ISH is set to celebrate its 50th anniversary, Villeroy & Boch will once again present its extensive range of innovations in the Festhalle. Villeroy & Boch, which was one of the first companies to exhibit at the ISH, recognised very early on the important role this exhibition would play not only in terms of expanding the company's international presence (share of exports 2008: 79.2%) but also as a platform for launching innovative products. This year, the focus lies on forward-looking bathroom design as well as product development that offers high ecological benefits. Villeroy & Boch is also participating in the ISH campaign "Blue Responsibility" which centres on the responsible utilisation of water in the 21st century.
This is not exactly a new theme for Villeroy & Boch. A multifaceted ecological commitment and an orientation towards sustainability are deeply rooted in the 260-year-old company and a long tradition that can be traced back to the beginning of the 19th century. Responsibility for future generations is an integral part of the corporate strategy. This not only applies for the production process but also for the actual products. Important milestones in the product area in the last century include ceramicplus, with its easy-care finish that saves time and water and eliminates the need for aggressive cleaning agents, and the water-saving 4.5-litre WCs with the additional Aquareduct feature. The urinals feature a special extractor section that reduces the flushing volume from the standard 2 to 3 litres to just 0.8 l.
With product innovations such as Omnia architectura GreenGain and water-saving tap fittings, which are being presented at ISH, Villeroy & Boch is taking further decisive steps towards the conservation of the essential resource water. Omnia architectura GreenGain is the first wall-mounted WC from Villeroy & Boch with a water consumption of just 3.5 l per flush (a saving of 40 %) **. Innovative technical solutions have also been integrated into the tap fittings with a view to reducing water consumption. In future, all washbasin tap fittings from Villeroy & Boch will be fitted with an air bubbler which will reduce water consumption by an average of 25 %.
Product benefits: sustainable health and well-being
All of these products are designed for the modern consumer who has an inner desire to use the vital resource water in a responsible manner. Increased use is now also being made of the invigorating and physically as well as emotionally regenerative qualities of water, which can be enjoyed, above all, in modern whirlpool systems.
Taking a bath in a whirlpool is an effective way of boosting your health and vitality in a sustainable manner: The innovative whirlpool systems Whisper** and Ultimate Fitness** from Villeroy & Boch with adjustable side jets, Air Royale function and Invisible Jets etc. are ideal not only for relaxing tense muscles and joints but also for stimulating circulation, metabolism and skin regeneration.
The comparatively high level of water used by a bath or whirlpool is justifiable, not only in terms of the sustainable and highly effective health benefits but, given that there is an abundance of fresh water in our region, is also in harmony with environmentally conscious behaviour. A consumption volume of 125 litres per person/day is necessary to ensure that the pipe system is thoroughly rinsed out.
As in many areas of life, it is also important here that the right balance be maintained between the economical use of water on the one hand and the desire for pleasure, well-being and health on the other. A responsible approach is necessary in either respect, both for the environment and our valued health. At ISH 2009, Villeroy & Boch will present a comprehensive range of products that contribute in many different ways to the achievement of this balance and will also provide broad-based support for the VDMA's "Blue Responsibility" campaign.
** further details in product text
Your press contact:
Simone Kempf
PR-Manager Bath, Wellness, Tiles
Tel: + 49 (0) 68 64 - 81 21 10
Fax: + 49 (0) 68 64 - 81 26 92
E-mail: kempf.simone@villeroy-boch.com