As the global population is expected to grow by over 21% by 2050, our world faces an unparalleled challenge: the deepening scarcity of safe, potable water. Climate change is amplifying this crisis, bringing prolonged droughts and erratic rainfall patterns that place immense pressure on existing water resources. The implications for agriculture, industries, and communities are profound, and we believe it’s time for action.
At Nestlé East and Southern Africa (ESAR), we are determined to be part of the solution. Water plays a critical role in everything we do, and we’re committed to pioneering change. As part of our sustainability strategy, we're implementing measures that ensure our water usage either remains neutral or leaves a regenerative impact.
Watch how we're turning these water conservation strategies into real impact across our operations.
- At our Mossel Bay Plant, automated tanker flush systems saved 5,947 cubic metres of water.
- In Nairobi, stormwater is repurposed for gardening, saving 1,165 cubic metres of water.
- At our Skimmelkrans Dairy pilot in George, South Africa, precision irrigation using soil moisture probes saved 240,825 cubic metres of water across 247 hectares.
These innovations are part of our broader regenerative agriculture strategy, which also includes drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting.
Achieving water security is a collective journey that requires strong partnerships and collaborative action. We at Nestlé ESAR recognise this fundamental truth and actively build alliances that amplify our impact and drive systemic change. Through collaborations such as the Strategic Water Partners Network, we work alongside government, industry, and civil society to address water supply and demand challenges across South Africa. These partnerships enable us to share knowledge, scale innovation, and create sustainable solutions that benefit communities and ecosystems alike.
This commitment doesn’t stop with us. Educating our consumers, suppliers, and communities is a vital aspect of our journey. Through campaigns and sustainability education, we’re expanding the horizons of responsible living and empowering others to join us in protecting our planet’s most precious resource.
Water stewardship transcends mere responsibility – it's a living legacy we create with every action. Through innovation, strategic collaboration, and continuous education, we're shaping a future where clean water remains accessible for all, securing this precious resource for generations to come.