The Health Award

The European Federation of Bottled Waters (EFBW) is the voice of the natural mineral and spring water producers in Europe. We represent over 550 companies, most of them small and medium sized and located in rural areas where employment tends to be scarce.

In Europe, unlike on other continents, consumers have a market preference for natural mineral waters and spring waters. Those waters must come from protected underground origin only, have not been disinfected nor chemically processed and are associated to a specific place of origin. Over the course of its long journey, sometimes thousands of years, the water is naturally filtered and enriched with minerals. This is how natural mineral water gains its unique taste and stable mineral compositions.

Producers are committed to protecting the unique qualities of natural mineral and spring waters. Our aim is to ensure that the high safety, quality and environmental standards of natural waters are recognized and maintained. In partnership with local stakeholders, the sector takes extensive measures to protect the environment around the source, help safeguarding biodiversity and natural habitats. Producers also contribute to regional, social and economic activity.

Natural mineral and spring water producers are active supporters of the Circular Economy. All packaging materials used by the industry – be it glass, PET plastic or aluminum - are 100% recyclable and represents a valuable resource after use. The sector plays a leading role in promoting collection and recycling. On 15^th of May 2018, EFBW pledged to reach 90% collection of PET water bottles and incorporate at least 25% recycled PET into new bottles, by 2025. Every bottle should be given a second life! Each bottle littered is one too many! EFBW is also a proud signatory of the Circular Plastics Alliance’s Declaration.

Water is a vital nutrient for our body. Drinking water is the healthiest, most natural way to hydrate. Available data suggests that Europeans are not drinking enough when compared with EFSA’s guidelines on adequate daily water intake. We believe water has an important role to play towards a healthier diet. The Federation advocates policymakers and regulators to adopt and promote national guidelines on healthy hydration and water intake.

For more information, please visit https://www.efbw.org and follow @efbw_eu.