ESSEX & Suffolk Water has thrown down the gauntlet and is challenging students across Thurrock to look at how they can help improve water efficiency and keep their leading and competitive edge in the industry.

The company - which supplies Essex’s population of 1½ million - is asking young people to come up with innovative and practical solutions to encourage young people to save water within their home as part of the Thurrock’s Next Top Boss programme.

The Green Solution Business Challenge was launched by the water company at Opportunity Thurrock – October’s careers information and guidance event.

The Challenge is part of the water company’s H2eco campaign which has helped over 18,000 homes in the county save about 23 litres of water each every day since its launch in 2010.

Carmel Littleton, Thurrock Council’s Director of Children’s Services: “We are very proud to be working with Essex & Suffolk Water on The Green Solution Business Challenge.

“They have presented young people with a real business problem and there’s also a chance that the solution could be included in the next phase of the H2eco project in Thurrock in 2015.

“I believe that this provides an opportunity for students taking part in the challenge to develop skills that will not only give them a competitive edge in today's job market but in the future.”