Refreshing the nation
Refreshing the nation: Peak body backs bottled water’s credentials
In response to recent media coverage, the Australasian Bottled Water Institute (ABWI), the water division of the Australian Beverages Council, has highlighted the environmental, health, safety and economic credentials of bottled water.
‘In addition to being one of the most environmentally friendly, commercially produced beverages, the very high safety and quality controls of bottled water make it a great choice for people who want safe, fast and convenient hydration when other options may not be available’ said Mr Geoff Parker, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Beverages Council.
‘The increasing popularity of active lifestyles is driving more Australians towards bottled water and that’s great news for the nation’s health. As a nation, we are grappling with burgeoning waistlines and everyone should be encouraged to drink more water, be that from a bubbler, bottle or tap,’ added Mr Parker.
The latest industry statistics show the bottled water industry generated more than $760 million in revenue in 2017-18 while supporting more than 3,000 jobs in manufacturing and supply chain across the country.
‘All parts of Australia benefit from activity associated with ABWI’s bottled water Members which operate in accordance with a strict Model Code,’ said Mr Parker.
The ABWI Model Code ensures the quality of our Members’ water products and creates a framework for the safe bottling of water. Our Model Code places additional requirements on Member companies beyond those detailed in the Food Standards Code.
In addition to pH levels, the ABWI Model Code provides guidance on safety, groundwater sustainability and management, microbiological auditing, manufacturing excellence, handling controls, health and hygiene regulation, cleaning and maintenance, staff training and chemical composition.
‘The bottled water industry responsibly manages groundwater through the ABWI Model Code which requires source owners to demonstrate the long-term sustainability of the water source,’ said Mr Parker.
Bottled water has one of the lowest environmental footprints of any commercial beverage.
Australian bottlers are leaders in new technologies designed to minimise environmental impact: ‘From lightweight polyethylene terephthalate or PET to blow filling technology and world leading water use ratios, these innovations have reduced waste during extraction and the amount of plastic resin required in the manufacturing process,’ said Mr Parker.
‘The non-alcoholic beverages industry will always advocate for consumer choice, more healthy drink options and products that sustainably manage our nation’s resources,’ added Mr Parker.
‘While recent media coverage has demonstrated major problems in Australia’s recycling system, many beverage companies have responded by developing environmentally friendly packaging, minimising the use of raw materials, where possible, and supporting recycling through Container Deposit Schemes across Australia,’ concluded Mr Parker.
Mr Geoff Parker is available for interview about the health, safety and economic benefits of the bottled water industry in Australia.
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Australian Beverages Council
The Australian Beverages Council is the peak body representing the collective interests of the non-alcoholic beverages industry. We strive to advance the industry as a whole, as well as successfully represent the range of beverages produced by our members. These include carbonated regular and diet soft drinks, energy drinks, sports and isotonic drinks, bottled and packaged waters, fruit juice and fruit drinks, cordials, iced teas, and ready-to-drink coffees.
The unified voice of the Australian Beverages Council offers our members a presence beyond individual representation in order to promote fairness in the standards, regulations, and policies concerning non-alcoholic beverages.
The Australian Beverages Council introduced a dedicated juice division, Fruit Juice Australia (FJA), in 2009 and a dedicated water division, the Australasian Bottled Water Institute (ABWI), in 2011. Through these, our organisation, and its relevance and impact continue to grow.
For further information or to speak with Geoff Parker, CEO, Australian Beverages Council:
Shae Courtney
Public Affairs Manager
Australian Beverages Council
T: 02 8313 7760
M: 0420 736 136
E: shae@ausbev.org