One of the world's largest food companies has scooped this year's Stockholm Industry Water Award for improving its water management, which includes reducing its total water withdrawals by over 30%.
The Award Committee recognised Nestlé’s work to improve the water management of its suppliers, which includes over 25 million people who are involved in its entire value chain.
Nestlé employs 1,000 agronomists and water experts, who work directly with farmers to help them reduce their water requirements, increase crop yields, and minimise pollution.
In 2009-2010, Nestlé provided expert training and technical support for 300,000 farmers and the company continues to collaborate with other food industry leaders to establish best practice and guidelines for sustainable water use at a farm level.
Joppe Cramwinckel, award committee member and director of water projects at the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, said: “With agriculture accounting for nearly 70% of global water use, and food demand expected to double by 2050, companies have an increasing responsibility to improve food chain resource efficiency.”
The honourary award will be presented to the chairman of Nestlé SA, P. Brabeck-Letmathe, at a ceremony on August 24 during the 2011 World Water Week in Stockholm.
###
