Nestlé’s Wyeth Nutrition facility, in Askeaton, Co. Limerick, is the first factory in Ireland to achieve the prestigious Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) standard platinum certification, in recognition of its water stewardship initiatives.
The platinum standard is provided where it has been proven that responsible water policies and initiatives, which lead to water preservation and reduction, are in place throughout a factory at the highest standard possible, and there is demonstrable engagement with stakeholders in the local catchment area, the company reported.
The platinum certification was awarded to Wyeth Nutritional Ireland Ltd after a rigorous independent assessment, which showed water stewardship throughout the factory being undertaken by its management and staff.
Antonio Prochilo, factory manager, said that the team placed significant focus on improving water sustainability on site, as part of Nestlé’s wider global prioritisation of water sustainability.
“Fresh, clean water is essential for our production here, and to ensure the highest-quality product,” Prochilo said.
“Our journey to safeguard and improve our water usage involved extensive engagement with stakeholders in our immediate water catchment area and across Ireland,” he added.
AWS Standard
The AWS standard is the global benchmark for measuring responsible water stewardship across social, cultural, environmental and economic criteria, with the platinum rating being the highest level of certification available.
Katja Seidenschnur, Nestlé EMENA sustainability director, said, “At Nestlé, we are strongly committed to water stewardship and to the AWS standard, as no water user can solve shared water challenges alone.
“Only working behind our factory gates is not enough. Our agricultural supply chains form the biggest part of our water footprint. Therefore, working with our suppliers and partners is key to having more impact,” Seidenschnur added.
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