Natural Mineral Waters Europe (NMWE) has announced enhanced actions to strengthen sustainability efforts under the EU Code of Conduct for Responsible Food Business and Marketing Practices.

This move includes refined actions on water stewardship, biodiversity restoration, decarbonisation and packaging circularity across its 500 member companies.

The updated goals include measurable biodiversity indicators by 2030, decarbonisation targets for Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2040 (towards net zero by 2050), 50% recycled content in plastic bottles by 2030 and an expanded approach to water management.

Alessandro Pasquale, president of NMWE, said: “Our new aspirations build on the progress we’ve made and the knowledge we’ve acquired since signing the Code in 2021. While the scope of some commitments is expanding—particularly in the field of sustainable water management – the focus is on deepening our actions and providing support to our members, giving us a longer-term action plan rather than just a step ahead.”

Key actions include:

Sustainable water management

NMWE’s commitment now extends beyond water efficiency to include stewardship at the watershed level. By promoting efficient water use in member operations and supply chains, and addressing water ecosystems and extreme weather, NMWE will help members manage water responsibly, considering its environmental, social and economic value.

Biodiversity restoration

NMWE said its focus on biodiversity remains central. The new commitments will help members preserve and restore biodiversity around their operations, with measurable outcomes by 2030.

Decarbonisation

NMWE is committed to net zero by 2050, with interim decarbonisation goals for Scopes 1 and 2 by 2040. Through ongoing guidance, tools and support, NMWE helps members reduce their carbon footprint while ensuring competitiveness in a low-carbon economy.

Circular economy

The sector remains committed to full packaging circularity, aiming for recyclable packaging by 2025 and 50% alternative materials in new plastic bottles by 2030. NMWE will collaborate with value chain partners to promote deposit refund systems (DRS) and extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes to reduce material loss throughout the entire lifecycle.

Patricia Fosselard, secretary general of NMWE, commented: “Our renewed commitments are about making our sector’s sustainability journey more robust and time-proof. Through this revamped approach, we will focus on providing for our members, especially SMEs, the tools, guidance and support they need to make a positive and lasting impact in the areas in which they operate. However, to make this possible, multi-stakeholder collaboration and an enabling legislative environment are also important success factors.”

Pasquale added: “As we deepen our efforts, NMWE will continue to be a trusted partner in Europe’s sustainability goals, supporting our members every step of the way".

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