falconuser, Author at Falcon Water Free

WHAT WE’RE READING: GREEN METROPOLIS

Built on his article published in the New Yorker, David Owen’s Green Metropolis is sure to cause some commotion in the sustainable world. Based on the argument that cities are inherently more sustainable than suburban and rural areas, Owen develops his case and argues how New York City is actually the greenest, most environmentally responsible community in America. His book mounts a passionate, fact-studded case for “the environmental advantages of Manhattan-style urban density.”

There has been a lot of criticism whether this is just another book on “Why living in New York City is awesome”, however it’s worth to take a step back and put some thought into Owen’s case.

The premise is that cities with a high population density are better for the environment than suburbs. Even though the city generates more greenhouse gases, uses more energy, and produces more solid waste than any other region of comparable size, individually, New Yorkers pollute, drive, consume and throw away far less than other Americans. This is based on “the tightly circumscribed space in which they live creates efficiencies and reduces the possibilities for reckless consumption” and the number of cars on the road. Less drivers equals more damaging fossil fuels and reason to spread out destroying open space.

While all this may draw many to criticism, it is worth discussing a different point of view when it comes to thinking our impact on the planet. Sustainability has no final destination, as there is always room for improvement. It is more than just switching to hybrid cars, recycling and creating HOV and bicycle lanes. It’s an ever-changing, ever-growing challenge that our generation faces on a daily basis. “We all tend to think of ourselves as the last unsinning inhabitants of whatever place we live in. We don’t usually recognize ourselves as participants in its destruction.” How can we change this? That is our question.

WHAT IS THE FUTURE OF SUSTAINABILITY FOR GOLF?

The word Sustainability has been tossed around like a garden salad, and has been addressed in all different types of industries. Some seam more reasonable than others, and some need more detailed explanation – such as golf. We know golf course clientele’ desire attractive, playable, green spaces, while according to non-golf public opinion, golf courses are a meaningless waste of resource and space. Sustainability in golf course management seems like an oxymoron to many. With that said, it only makes sense that the Environmental Institute for Golf, the philanthropic organization of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America, is now leading a collaborative industry-wide effort toward a sustainable approach to golf facility management.

With the well known challenges the Golf Course industry faces, whether from government regulation or public perception, the association recognized the need for a sustainability plan that is focused, organized, and fosters collaboration, unity, transparency, and participation as important principal elements. They have sent out on a journey to ensure the “triple bottom line” – people, planet, and profit – is met.

CALIFORNIANS MEET WATER CONSERVATION GOALS

Last Tuesday, the California state water board announced that in December Californians met governor Jerry Brown’s water conservation goal of cutting water use by 20 percent for the first time. As we mentioned before, California is where we started and it continues to be the place we call home, therefore we can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. Not only is this our home, but it has always been our vision to promote conservation of the Earth’s precious supply of fresh water while supporting sustainable resource management. For over ten years we have believed in creating a water conscious restroom and it’s extremely exciting to see so many people come together with the same goal in mind.

Read more our involvement with the 20 by 2020 water goal and our local initiative here and here.

THE GRAMMY GOES GREEN AT THE STAPLE CENTER

February has proven to be a busy month. Last weekend we were able to enjoy THE big game with a teeth clenching win, and this Sunday we will have the opportunity to see the biggest names in music come together to celebrate talent and cultural enrichment. We are talking about the 57th Grammy Awards hosted by The Recording Academy in Los Angeles, CA. More specifically at the Staples Center.

Established in 1957, The Recording Academy is an organization of musicians, producers, engineers and recording professionals that is dedicated to improving the cultural condition and quality of life for music and its makers. They are responsible for groundbreaking professional development, advocacy, education and human services program; and five years ago, they partnered with the NRDC to integrate ecologically intelligent practices to planning and production of the awards show.

The infographic above shows how the Academy has incorporated green initiatives to their Headquarters, however the planning and production of the awards will also see some changes. From utilizing 100 percent of renewable energy, to using online tickets and sponsoring carpools through Ride Amigos, they are doing a great job in reducing the ecological footprint that this big of an event may produce.

To read more about how the GRAMMY awards are going green click here. If you are interested in reading on how the Staples Center also integrates sustainability to their everyday click here.

YOU’VE GOT MAIL: 2015 U.S. WATER PRIZE

It was a regular Tuesday afternoon when the email came through our inbox. It was like any other newsletter, however we couldn’t help but feel enthusiastic about what we were about to read.The U.S Water Alliance (USWA) had announced the winners for the 5th annual Water Prize award and one name particularly popped out.

A little background on the prize first…The U.S. Water Prize was created by the USWA to elevate organizations with strategies that promote the value of water and the power of innovating and integrating for water sustainability. These organizations usually are at the forefront of protecting U.S. watersheds; through technology, collaboration, and education they drive the country to a more sustainable water future.

The reason why we were excited when opening that email, was we read that our friends at the City of San Diego Public Utilities Department were one of the 2015 winners; with their Water Purification Demonstration Project as the award-winning effort. The project findings are helping develop standards for potable reuse across the country and enabling the City to move forward with Pure Water San Diego, a 20-year water reuse program to supply 83 million gallons per day of drinking water locally by 2035.

We are thrilled for this announcement and send big congrats to all in the San Diego Public Utilities Department.

For more info on the winners click here.

Falcon Waterfree Technologies enlists PGA Tour Golfer Jason Gore to help spread water conservation message

Leading water conservation company to sponsor California native on PGA tour to raise awareness for water savings

LOS ANGELES – Feb. 3, 2015 – As a new and innovative way to spread its message about water conservation efforts, Falcon Waterfree Technologies is pleased to announce that it will sponsor PGA Tour Golfer Jason Gore on the 2015 PGA Tour. In support of the sponsorship, Jason will be posting on social media to raise awareness for Falcon and rebate programs that are available for golf courses to take the next step in water conservation, especially on the West Coast Swing of the tour. While golf courses have made significant improvements to their water efficiency on the fairways, they have overlooked one of the most wasteful uses of water: the restroom.

A California native and resident of Valencia, Jason knows all-to-well the effects of a multi-year drought can have on the state and that everyone has to do their part to help stop it. As part of the partnership between Jason and Falcon, he will be raising awareness for water conservation efforts on his Twitter page (http://www.twitter.com/JasonGore59) and in media interviews. Jason will also be wearing the Falcon logo on his polo sleeve during and after play.

“Golf courses get a bad reputation, sometimes deservedly so, when it comes to water usage and while they’ve come a long way in the last 10 years, there are still important steps for them to take to finish the job,” said Jason Gore. “Making the switch to waterfree urinals is a very small undertaking with unlimited savings potential.”

The biggest waste of fresh water is found in the place that we spend as little as time in as possible, the bathroom. By installing water-efficient or waterfree urinals, California golf courses can save up to 40,000 gallons of water per year/per urinal. If every one of the 1,100 golf courses in California installed just two waterfree urinals in their bathrooms, they could save a combined 88,000,000 gallons of water a year. With an immediate savings on water, clubhouses and restaurants will see a reduction in their water bill the very next month. Some golf courses have already installed waterfree urinals; Riviera Country Club, Los Angeles Country Club, Hillcrest Country Club and Bel-Air Country Club have all installed Falcon Waterfree and are seeing immediate water savings.

“As a global company with California roots, we jumped at the chance to work with Jason to help raise awareness for our efforts,” said Falcon Waterfree CEO Simon Davis. “We are always looking at new, fun ways to reach important market segments and Jason will help to ensure we get our message out there. We look forward to a long relationship and we are convinced he will win on the course and we will win off the course.”

Many local water utilities across the state, including in Los Angeles & San Francisco, are offering rebate programs that can cover the entire purchase and installation of the waterless urinal. Thanks to a $20 million rebate program with Los Angeles Department of Water & Power, Los Angeles area golf courses can receive up to $500 for the purchase and installation of each fixture that covers the entire cost in most cases. There is no limit to how many rebates can be redeemed per location so a restaurant can receive all new fixtures for both men and women’s bathrooms at no cost. Installation can be done in as little as one hour so that bathrooms can be up and running as soon as possible.

Jason Gore was a successful junior player and went on to play college golf both the University of Arizona and Pepperdine University. He was a member of the 1997 NCAA Championship Pepperdine Waves golf team. He also won the Pac-10 individual championship during his freshman and sophomore years at the University of Arizona. Jason turned professional in 1997 after the US Amateur. Jason holds the record for most wins in Web.com Tour history and also won the 2005 84 Lumber Classic on the PGA Tour. Jason is now a PGA Tour veteran and in addition to his victories, Jason belongs to an elite group of players who have shot 59 in their careers.

For information on Falcon Waterfree Technologies, please visit http://www.falconwaterfree.com.

SPOTLIGHT: DODGER STADIUM

Welcome back! It is time for our Spotlight series. This space is reserved for highlighting all the great things our partners and customers are accomplishing worldwide. These companies, institutions and venues are as much a part of Falcon’s journey to conserve, as our employees. Let’s get right to it, shall we?

Dodger Stadium has been the home of unique and special moments, Hall of Famers and World Champions. It is the third oldest continually used park in Major League Baseball and stands as one of the most unique and picturesque settings in sports, carved as it is into the hillside of Chavez Ravine overlooking downtown LA to the south.The stadium has seen many improvements in the past few years – from the addition of suites to new scoreboards and a renovation of the field level. Changes have been made both visible changes and behind the scenes upgrades to the aging infrastructure. As part of the renovations, the Dodgers have gone green, instituting many measures toward being energy efficient. Included in the construction was installation of new water valves, low-flush fixtures, waterless urinals, hand-driers to eliminate paper waste, automatic faucets to control water flow and new power and lighting energy-efficient systems.

The commitment to environmental excellence continues as a forefront for Dodger Stadium. We are glad to, once again, be a part of this great initiative!

SAN MATEO HIGH SCHOOL’S URINETOWN

For two weekends starting today, San Mateo High School’s Performing Arts will be presenting the hit Broadway play “Urinetown.” A musical satire of social irresponsibility, “Urinetown” is about a small city that has outlawed the use of private toilets due to an extreme drought with citizens paying for the right to use public restrooms. Taking inspiration from their classmates production, the Environmental Science students at San Mateo High are raising funds to install new environmentally friendly urinals throughout the school.The class took the idea of Urinetown to heart and, wanting to make sure it never happened in their town, will be raising funds during the performances for the purchase and installation of Falcon Waterfree urinals for their campus. One of the students stated, that “With California in a severe drought, I think it’s important for everyone to take action for water conservation. It’s inspiring to know that something we do, like improving our urinals, can save our state such a large quantity of precious fresh water.”

We are proud to support the students in this initiative as California Water Service in San Mateo is one of the only water utility companies in the area to not offer rebates for the purchase of waterless urinals. This is such a great initiative from the students. We always encourage people to think about saving water not just in their own homes, but in every aspect of their lives – and this is a great example!

The biggest waste of clean drinking water is found in the place that we spend as little as time in as possible, the bathroom. By installing water-efficient or waterfree urinals, San Mateo High School can save up to an average or more than 40,000 gallons of water per year/per urinal. With 33 urinals across its campus, the High School can save an up to 1,320,000 gallons of water a year. That’s a pretty impressive number, don’t you think?

“This project gives our students an opportunity to bring a lot of disparate ideas together. In Environmental Science we spend significant time with California’s drought and its consequences for the state’s ecology and economy,” said AP Environmental Science Teacher Miguel Appleman. “The musical Urinetown considers a vision of drought from a more artistic angle, with acting, music and dance. The project gives students, many of whom are in the class and the show, the opportunity to look at both interpretations of drought, and then we sprinkle in a taste of activism, a bit of a civics lesson. Here’s a problem, our overuse of water, and they can do more than just watch it happen; they can do something about it, and by bringing in more people, they can move things forward.

After all is said and done, we will post an update on the outcome of San Mateo’s fundraiser and how many urinals were installed in the school. Until then; happy Friday!

ISH: THE MECHANICAL CARTRIDGE

ISH is quickly approaching and we couldn’t be more excited to share our latest water conservation technology to the European market.

Water conservation in the plumbing industry can be a bit tricky, as water conservation can greatly inhibit how product’s function alone and within a building’s piping infrastructure. As plumbing industry manufacturers have adjusted to conserve precious fresh water resources they have continually cut back on the water used for each flush. This ultimately means that with each little flush there is a high urine to water ratio trickling down which can create hard scale build up in your building’s pipes. Solids from the urine can combine with solids from the water to create substances that are like rock.

There are two approaches you can take to keep your pipes happy and avoid this nasty hard build up – one: eliminate water, pee waterfree! Commit to 100% water savings and never look back. Two: quench your thirsty pipes! Purge your pipes with a large amount of water on a timed and minimal basis.

Falcon has long been known for our leading and patented waterfree technology, which takes care of option one, but with the introduction of our new Hybrid Urinal we have you covered for option two as well. Either options saves much more water than any high efficiency urinal on the market and helps your pipes clean and happy. Both waterfree and our new hybrid system are designed to introduce a big purge of water to flush out the pipes. One is by hand, the other is automated.

In addition to introducing our latest Hybrid Urinal technology at ISH we will be debuting a brand new waterfree Mechanical Valve Cartridge options. Although our liquid trap Velocity Cartridge is our most robust solution, it isn’t the right fit for every installation. With the addition of our new valve technology we can offer the European market the proper solution for any facility type. The Velocity is great in high volume and high traffic places like stadiums and office buildings, where as our Mechanical Valve is highly effective for lower traffic restrooms and independent commercial applications like pubs and restaurants. With exceptional flow rate and unique patent protected technology, our Mechanical Valve Cartridge will be sure to be an effective solution that helps prevent hard scale build up in your pipes and improve end user experience (nobody likes to walk up and find a pool of someone else’s left behind).

Come visit us at ISH, Booth 4.1 K65, to learn more about all of our unique and innovative technologies that keep us the water conservation leader in the industry.

Michael Gebert Joins Falcon as CFO; Matt Korcinsky Spearheads Growth Initiatives

LOS ANGELES, January 1, 2015

Falcon Waterfree Technologies®, LLC, the global leader in waterless urinal technology, announced today two exciting personnel developments within its growing company. Michael Gebert has accepted an appointment as the corporation’s Chief Financial Officer, effective January 1, 2015. Simultaneously, Matt Korcinsky, the company’s Managing Director and CFO for the past four years, will serve as Senior Advisor and initiate key international strategies while continuing his focus on Falcon’s acquisition plans.

About Michael Gebert

Mr. Gebert will be responsible for Falcon’s finance and administration functions, including: Global Supply Chain, Human Resources, Legal and IT. He will report to Falcon’s President & CEO, Simon A. Davis.

Immediately before joining Falcon, Gebert served as Chief Financial Officer for Switzerland-based Franke Kitchen Systems Group, a privately held company with global operations that design, manufacture and distribute high-end integrated components for residential kitchens. Prior to Franke, Mr. Gebert enjoyed a 23-year career at United Technologies Corporation (NYSE: UTX) in various executive positions of increasing responsibility. His most recent role was Managing Director of Chubb Fire Plc in the United Kingdom. Before that he served as Vice President of Finance for UTC Fire & Security EMEA in Paris, Vice President of Finance for Carrier Asia-Pacific Operations in Singapore, and Director of Finance for Toshiba-Carrier Corporation in Japan. Mr. Gebert also held senior positions at Carrier and UTC Headquarter Offices. Mr. Gebert started his career at the General Electric Company and completed its Financial Management Program and is a graduate of Michigan State University.

“We are thrilled to have Michael Gebert’s leadership skills and financial acumen as part of Falcon’s executive team,” commented President & CEO, Simon A. Davis, who added that “Gebert helps us round out our bench of talent as Falcon prepares for dramatic global growth in 2015.”

About Matt Korcinsky

Matt Korcinsky joined Falcon in 2010 after a successful career in international corporate finance, buy-side investment banking, and operating private equity sponsored portfolio companies. These experiences have served Falcon well in its financial turnaround efforts while re-energizing its top line growth. The newly created role is an ideal fit for Mr. Korcinsky’s background.

“Matt’s extensive international and financial leadership skills will help the Company accelerate its growth and propel Falcon to realize its enormous potential.” stated Simon A. Davis, President & CEO of Falcon.

About Falcon Waterfree Technologies

Founded in 2000, Los Angeles-based Falcon Waterfree Technologies is the market leader in the waterless urinal market. Falcon has offices in 6 countries and distribution affiliates in more than 50 nations, including marketing partnerships with some of the world’s best known urinal and washroom products manufacturers such as Sloan Valve Company, Bobrick Washroom Equipment, Corona, Ideal Standard and many others. Falcon urinals are in use worldwide in entertainment venues, educational facilities, airports, restaurants, office buildings, and many other types of commercial and governmental facilities. Falcon urinals use a patented cartridge system that can save an annual average of up to 40,000 gallons / 151,000 liters or more of fresh water per urinal. Falcon urinals eliminate most related sewage charges, reduce carbon emissions by eliminating the energy needed to transport water and sewage, and are up to five times more hygienic than flush urinals. Falcon is privately owned by entities of Mapleton Investments and Capricorn Investment Group. For more information visit www.falconwaterfree.com

For more information on Falcon Waterfree Technologies, please contact Andrea Chase at achase@falconwaterfree.com.