Improving Sanitation Access: CCEP Indonesia Introduces WASH+ Program in Karawang

Karawang, July 17, 2024 - Data from the Indonesia Central Statistics Agency (BPS) 2023 shows that only around 7 million households in Indonesia have access to safe sanitation, while 11 million people still practice open defecation. In response to this challenge, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Indonesia (CCEP Indonesia) developed the WASH+ program, which integrates innovative solutions in water and sanitation, with additional training in utilizing limited land for family farming (micro-farming) and effective waste management. This program is a concrete manifestation of the company's commitment to responsible water management and community-based waste management, as stated in CCEP's sustainability commitment, This Is Forward.

Lucia Karina, Director of Public Affairs, Communications, and Sustainability CCEP Indonesia stated, “Water is a vital resource for nature, society, and our products. Through WASH+, we are committed to supporting the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 6 on access to clean water and sanitation and Goal 11 on sustainable cities and settlements, by recovering 100% of the volume of water we use in the beverages we produce by 2030. The program also supports our efforts to achieve 100% regenerative water use in key locations.”

Not stopping at providing access to safe clean water, Karina also added that the program is expected to also provide new economic opportunities through micro-farming training and encourage better waste management practices, in line with government targets in the National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN) and National Long-Term Development Plan (RPJPN).

Kutamaneuh Village was selected as the location of the WASH+ pilot project after a thorough survey in several areas of Bogor, Bekasi, and Karawang. The selection was based on the urgent need for better sanitation access and the commitment of the local community to improve their quality of life.

The WASH+ program initiative received positive responses from various parties, including the Kutamaneuh Village Head. “The issue of sanitation is one of the major concerns for us in Kutamaneuh Village. We realize that access to safe sanitation can help us realize a healthy, clean and beautiful environment. Therefore, we highly appreciate this WASH+ program and are committed to supporting the implementation of the program so that it can run smoothly and as expected,” said Adang Esan, Kutamaneuh Village Head.

WASH+ is expected to provide comprehensive benefits to the community. The program will increase access to clean water, improve sanitation and hygiene habits, open up new livelihood opportunities, and improve public health by reducing the risk of water-borne diseases. The program is targeted for completion in November 2024, supported by partners such as Water Stewardship Indonesia and Safe Water Gardens.