Water-free washing machine 'could be green choice for domestic cleaning' - 04/09/2009

Domestic cleaners looking for an eco-friendly way to wash clothes may be interested to hear about a new washing machine said to use less than two per cent of the water and energy used by other models.

According to business blog Domain-B, researchers at the University of Leeds have developed a new product integrating revolutionary technology, which could make it virtually waterless.

The process, devised by the university's commercial enterprise Xeros, uses plastic granules, which are spun with the clothes to remove marks.

Xeros' washing machine is said to have performed well in a range of contract cleaning tests, demonstrating it can remove everyday stains as well as existing systems.

Using less than a cup of water, the researchers believe the technology could offer an eco solution to sectors other than domestic cleaning, such as waste treatment and are now seeking to commercialise the design.

In related news, a London office's clean design has been the first to receive LEED CI Silver Certification.

Built for architectural firm Gensler, the office is the first workspace of its kind to be certified by this method in the UK, greenbuildingpress.co.uk has reported.