“As environmentally conscious design gains momentum for commercial offices, municipal buildings, schools, retail centers and similar buildings, it is noteworthy to see this trend emerging in the industrial sector as well. The Nestlé Waters LEED Certified plants are a great example of what businesses can accomplish by promoting superior environmental and economic performance from their own facilities.”

Christine Ervin
President and Chief Executive Officer
U.S. Green Building Council
Press Release April 22, 2003

A “gentle footprint” is our approach to constructing our newest facilities. In fact, our Cabazon, California plant was the first food manufacturing facility in the U.S. to earn the Silver LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. The first U.S. food manufacturing facility to achieve LEED Certification was our Mecosta, Michigan facility.

For a facility to obtain LEED Certification, specific criteria on a point system must be satisfied.

“Green buildings” significantly reduce or eliminate negative impact on the environment and its occupants. This is our commitment for the design and construction practices of our newest factories.

Maine’s STEP-UP (School To Employment Program - Upward Progress) program is another example of how Nestlé Waters North America strives to be environmentally responsible.

In December 2002, the Poland Spring facility in Hollis, Maine, signed a “STEP-UP” agreement with the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to explore new ways of protecting the environment that go beyond regulatory compliance. We set specific goals for reducing waste, improving water yield and reducing air emissions through energy conservation.

Currently, the plant is recycling 91 percent of its waste stream – good-quality cardboard boxes are sold for reuse; mixed corrugate and office paper is recycled; low-density polyethylene from wraps and cap bags is recycled and turned into plastic products; and PET and HDPE bottles are also recycled. Some of the Poland Spring PET bottles are processed into POLAR TEC fleece or carpet at the Interface Fabrics plant in Guilford, Maine.

Be sure to read about our certifications in local papers.

Nestlé Waters North America's Environmental Commitment