Federation House Commitment - Progress Report: 2009
Why sign up?
The Food and Drink Industry is a major water user,
both from direct abstraction and from the public water
supply. According to the Food Industry Sustainability
Strategy (FISS), the food industry in England and Wales
is estimated to use 430 mega litres per day (equivalent
to 156,950,000 cubic metres per year) from the public
water supply (10% of industrial use). It is also estimated
to make direct abstractions of 260 mega litres of water
per day (about 10% of the total abstracted)[4].
An overall water reduction target of 20% by 2020
against a 2007 baseline (excluding water contained
within the product) set by the FISS is considered to be
feasible by implementing water use best practices
across the industry.
So by signing up to the Federation House Commitment,
companies can help meet their industry target, while
also reaping the benefits of improved water efficiency
and financial savings.
Improved sustainability. Reducing water usage can
help companies reduce their environmental impact and
meet their environmental sustainability targets.
Improving the bottom line. A company can save
around 20-30% on its water and effluent bills by putting
simple or relatively low cost measures in place. Further
savings can be achieved when companies invest in
long-term water saving projects and technology.
Because water needs to be treated before and after
use, the costs of the associated energy and materials
will also be reduced along with the carbon footprint.
Gaining a competitive edge. Today's consumers are
increasingly aware of the impact they are making on
the environment, and are attracted to companies that
are addressing theirs. More and more this focus is
extending throughout the supply chain, and it's now
important for both business-to-business and consumer
focused companies to address their stakeholder
expectations.
Water availability. Over abstraction, climate change,
population growth and economic development all
have an effect on water availability. In water stressed
conditions, water restrictions could affect operations.
Companies that are addressing their water usage will
be better prepared for any potential disruption to the
water supply.
Health and safety. The use of some water minimisation
technologies can also lead to health and safety benefits.
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In this report:
More Information
4. Food and Drink Industry Sustainability Strategy, 2006,
www.defra.gov.uk
Last reviewed: 13 Jul 2009