Atlanta, 09.07.2012 – The Coca-Cola Company has developed and tested at commercial scale a first-of-its-kind beverage process water recovery system to produce high-quality water that meets and/or exceeds drinking water standards for use in non-product activities such as clean-in-place and bottle washing. The innovative system expands the range of manufacturing applications for recovered process water and sets precedent for conservation and reuse in the beverage industry.

By reusing — rather than treating and discharging — the water used in bottling facilities, The Coca-Cola Company can reduce operational water needs and improve water use efficiency by up to 35%, contribute to growth and local economic development opportunities, further support local communities, and reduce its water footprint.

“Addressing global water challenges requires our business to take an active role in conserving water resources,” said Carletta Ooton, Vice President, Chief Quality, Safety, and Sustainable Operations Officer. “We have approached this new technology with the goal of achieving the highest possible quality in recovered water. The multi-barrier system meets or exceeds even the most stringent water quality standards, reflecting our companywide commitment to safety, quality, and the environment in everything we do.”

The Coca-Cola Company and this innovative technology have been recognized with the ‘Innovation in Small Projects Award’ by the International Water Association at its Asia Pacific Regional Innovation Awards. The Company submitted the water recovery and reuse system technology and results from its pilots in India and Mexico. The project will also be entered in the IWA Global Awards later this year.

Source: corporate press release