Yarra Valley Water has teamed up with Melbourne social enterprise OC Connections to deliver a water-saving fleet cleaning service that also creates meaningful employment for people with disability.
Since early 2024, OC Connections has been cleaning Yarra Valley Water’s pool vehicles using its waterless method.
OC Connections provides customised employment opportunities for people with disability. Its fleet cleaning service reduces water consumption using a range of carefully sourced biodegradable and environmentally friendly products.
The team applies the products to the vehicle with microfibre cloths, using different products and cloths for the wheels, tyres, glass, bodywork and interior to avoid cross-contamination. On average, less than half a litre of water is used per vehicle.
Yarra Valley Water managing director, Natalie Foeng said the initiative shows how smart purchasing decisions can make a positive difference.
“With Melbourne’s water storages down by more than 16 per cent in the past 12 months, it’s crucial that everyone looks for ways to save water,” she said.
“Using OC Connections’ waterless fleet cleaning services, we’re cutting water use while supporting local social enterprise.
“It’s a great example of how our Social Procurement Strategy helps us achieve positive environmental and social outcomes at the same time.”
OC Connections operations manager, Greg Whitters said the partnership with Yarra Valley Water has been highly beneficial.
“Providing environmentally friendly waterless fleet cleaning for Yarra Valley Water offers our team members a great opportunity to work within their community,” he said.
“Partnerships with inclusive organisations like this also help to remove the employment barriers that people with disability so often face.
“The sense of pride our team members take in their work is enormous, so it’s fantastic when organisations like Yarra Valley Water empower them by giving them the opportunity.”
People can learn more about the services OC Connections provides on its website: occonnections.org/commercial-services/ and Yarra Valley Water’s services at www.yvw.com.au
