Sustainability through the application of Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) at Philip Morris Manufacturing and Technology Bologna

Climate change is placing ever-greater pressure on global water resources, exacerbating the imbalance between water demand and supply. As water scarcity is becoming one of the most critical environmental challenges worldwide, organizations are called upon to adopt sustainable management practices that ensure the long-term conservation of this limited resource. Responsible water management (Water Stewardship) offers a holistic approach to the responsible use of water, balancing environmental protection, social equity and economic development. By implementing water-efficient technologies, wastewater reuse strategies and stakeholder engagement initiatives, companies can reduce water consumption whilst increasing their resilience to climate-related risks. This study examines the implementation of the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) standard at Philip Morris Manufacturing & Technology Bologna (PMMTB), based in Crespellano, Italy. By adopting the AWS framework, PMMTB achieved AWS Core certification in 2019, becoming the second certified site in Italy and the first reduced-risk product manufacturing facility within Philip Morris International. In 2021, the site further strengthened its commitment by achieving AWS Gold certification. Research highlights how the AWS standard supports the reduction of the water footprint, the sustainable management of resources and collaboration with local stakeholders to tackle common water-related challenges. PMMTB’s experience demonstrates that responsible water management can serve as an effective and replicable model across various industrial contexts, contributing to a more sustainable use of water and promoting a culture of environmental responsibility both within and beyond the organisation’s boundaries.