CCEP signs business statement to maintain the European Water Framework Directive

Today, Coca-Cola European Partners, The Coca-Cola Company and other bottling partners – with the further support of 20 other businesses – has signed a joint statement, making clear that business stands together with the 375,000 European citizens who have urged the European Commission – and governments across the EU – to maintain the EU’s Water Framework Directive in its current form.

The Directive provides a framework to ensure that freshwater ecosystems in Europe are protected and restored and water is sustainably managed, fully supporting the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Freshwater is essential for businesses to operate and nature to thrive. Effective water management practices are critical to addressing Europe’s growing water risks and to improve our resilience to the impacts of climate change. This need has never been greater, and despite the efforts made by governments, businesses, and communities, a lot of work remains to be done

The Directive has encouraged businesses to mobilize and take collective action; the signing of this business statement today is an important step towards further progressing widespread sustainable water management.

Joe Franses, VP for Sustainability, Coca-Cola European Partners, said: “Water is the main ingredient in our products and we must treat it with the care it deserves. As water resources are affected in many of our territories, we want to ensure a sustainable supply, by reducing the amount of water we use in our operations and protecting local water sources for future generations. We’re aiming to reduce the water we use in our manufacturing sites by 20% by 2025, as well as replenishing 100% of the water we use in areas of water stress through community based partnerships.”

Click here to read more about the European Water Framework Directive, and here to learn more about our Action on Water.