Scientists convert water into gold for charity

UNICEF NZ (UN Children’s Fund)

Media Release

Scientists convert water into gold for children’s charity

Wellington, 26 February 2009. – Christchurch scientists have come up with a winning formula to turn tap water into financial support for the UN Children’s Fund.  

Christchurch staff of the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) came up with the plan as a way to help UNICEF’s Tap Project, which raises funds for life-saving water projects developing countries.

ESR Scientist Elaine Moriarty says that a group of staff who volunteer for charitable water projects – called “WAiders” -- heard about the Tap Project and decided to support it. As ESR water scientists, many of the WAiders group are invited to work alongside Pacific Island communities on projects which benefit the local communities by enhancing water quality management programmes.

The WAiders sold water-filled balloons to their colleagues, along with the right to toss them at senior managers, including ESR chief executive officer John Hay.

Balloons aimed at managers cost $2, but those destined for the CEO sold for a premium of $20 each.

Ms Moriarty says that about 80 staff took part in the light-hearted lunchtime event, which raised more than $500 for UNICEF.

“The fundraiser was a great way for staff to support UNICEF’s water-projects for children and really brought home how lucky we are in New Zealand to have plentiful supplies of good water available.”

UNICEF Tap Project Co-ordinator, Carolyn Shivanandan, says that the ESR scientists did a great job of turning water into gold.

“We really appreciate the effort the WAiders put into organising this event and for the generosity of ESR managers in putting themselves in the firing line for a good cause.”

Ms Shivanandan says that although the Tap Project principally takes place in restaurants, workplace groups and schools are encouraged to support the campaign by running their own fundraising events. UNICEF is also encouraging schools to use the Tap Project as a learning opportunity.

The Tap Project is a month-long campaign (9 March to 9 April) that enlists the support of restaurants and cafes around New Zealand, along with their customers. During the month, restaurants and cafes ask diners to donate $1 or more for the clean, healthy tap water they normally receive free of charge.

Ms Shivanandan says that restaurants and cafes around the country are in the process of registering for the Tap Project, including some in Christchurch, Canterbury and other parts of the South Island.

“More than 110 restaurants and cafes took part last year and we are hopeful for an even stronger showing this year, especially from the South Island.”

Ms Shivanandan says the Tap Project is a great way for Kiwis to help improve the lives of poor children.

“The reality is that about one billion people around the world do not have access to clean drinking water and some 2.6 billion people can’t access proper sanitation facilities.

“The lack of clean and accessible drinking water is the second biggest killer of children under five worldwide. Nearly 5,000 children die every day as a result of water-related diseases such as diarrhoea, cholera, typhoid and malaria.

“By supporting the Tap Project New Zealanders can help to make a difference. Funds raised from this year’s campaign will support UNICEF water-projects in Laos.”

Restaurants and cafes that would like to participate in the Tap Project are asked to email: tapproject@unicef.org.nz or phone 0800-537-739. People can find a participating restaurants or café, and learn more about the campaign at www.tapproject.org.nz

ends

© Scoop Media