Bottled water firms should be held responsible: Wahli
Wahyoe Boediwardhana , The Jakarta Post, Malang, East Java
May 26, 2010
Deforestation on the slopes of Mt. Arjuna in Pasuruan regency has reached alarming levels and private companies benefiting from its natural resources need to take responsibility, says the Each Java branch of the Indonesian Forum for the Environment (Walhi).
Purnawan Dwikora Negara, a Wahli coordinator in East Java, said that deforestation posed dangers to people living around the forest.
Data shows that of the 15,600 hectares of protected forest area, about 3,400 hectares are damaged and categorized as critical, in addition to another 402 hectares that were burned in 2009.
"What makes it alarming is the damaged forest has functioned as a water catchment area that supplies springs and underground water reserves," Purnawan said recently, adding that reforestation efforts by plating trees must be urgently pursued.
Private companies, such as bottled water companies, have also benefited from the springs and must be held responsible and pay compensation to the community, he said.
There are 14 bottled water companies operating at Mt. Arjuna, including PT Tirta Investama, with its product Danone Aqua. The company has been granted a concession that allows it to take water at a rate of 50 liters per second from the Pandaan water spring.
Around 1,500 truck tanks, each holding a capacity of 5,000 liters, carry water from the water springs in Mt. Arjuna to be sold to Surabaya, Sidoarjo, and Pasuruan.
While exploiting the water resources, the companies have criticized for their lack of environmental conservation. Several companies have implemented corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs, but groups such as Wahli say the results have been minimal so far.
For Walhi, companies should be obliged to allocate 60 percent of its revenue for reforestation.
"Take it as an environmental fee because they get everything for free," Purnawan said.
However, the CSR manager for Danone Aqua in the East Java region, Arief Fatullah, denied suggestions his company was not giving back. He said they planted 30,000 seedlings from 2008-2009, which would be followed by another 50,000 this year.
"We are also implementing foster forest programs in a total area of 72 hectares. That's part of the Arjuna Mountain forest conservation," Arief said.
He said the company had spent Rp 2 billion on its CSR program in East Java, but Purnawan said the sum was not comparable to the company's huge revenue.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Speaking out against bottled water in Pakistan
More than half of bottled water brands unfit for use
Thursday, April 29, 2010
By Shahid Husain
Karach
As many as 12 out of the 22 brands of bottled water sold in Pakistan were “unsafe for human consumption,” Naeem Sadiq, an activist of Shehri-Citizens for a Better Environment (Shehri-CBE) said on Wednesday, while citing a 2004 report of the science and technology ministry’s Pakistan Council for Research in Water Resources (PCRWR).
During a lecture at the office of the Urban Resource Centre (URC), Sadiq said that these brands were found to be unsafe by none other than the government of Pakistan due to poor microbiological and chemical quality. Small wonder then, that on December 31, 2004, the Supreme Court of Pakistan was compelled to take a serious view of the report, he said, adding however, that sadly, one finds various unsafe brands of bottled water being marketed with impunity in the impoverished country.
On November 30, 2004, the Sindh High Court (SHC) also made history when it restrained an international water company from providing water in “Education City” at the Super Highway, Karachi, for American soldiers fighting the “war on terror” in Afghanistan, he said.
Had the SHC not done this, the Gadap aquifer would have been drained, affecting the lives and livelihood of the local population.
Sadiq said that as many as 200 billion bottles of water were produced across the world every year for a whopping $50billion business. One liter of bottled water in Pakistan costs 30 times more than the same amount of tap water, he added.
Bottled water means environmental degradation of the worst and involved the wastage of precious resources, Sadiq said. Around 200 billion plastic bottles are produced across the world every year and only 20 per cent of them are re-cycled, which is perhaps why the developed world, which is short of landfills, has found the developing world to be an ideal dumping ground of plastic waste, he said.
“Bottled water is one of the biggest scams of our time,” he said. Common folk and the elite alike are given the impression that bottled water was “pure” “safe” and “fresh” and has pristine labels — this, however, is a farce, Sadiq claimed.
Bottled water was first introduced in Pakistan in 1968, and amazingly, while the worldwide growth of bottled water was 24 per cent per annum; it was 40 per cent per annum in Pakistan, he said, adding that common folk were finding it increasingly difficult to get water in Pakistan.
Four factors push the demand for bottled water: exaggerated fear of tap water; seduction of mineral water bottles; corruption of the government; and the greed of the corporate sector, Sadiq said. The Karachi Water & Sewerage Board (KWSB) has a foreign debt of Rs 42 billion and no donor is ready to help anymore, he said.
“The plain truth is that there is no water shortage in Karachi because it receives 695 million gallons every day,” Sadiq said, adding however, that a major chunk of this is lost due to theft, pilferage and faulty lines.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
By Shahid Husain
Karach
As many as 12 out of the 22 brands of bottled water sold in Pakistan were “unsafe for human consumption,” Naeem Sadiq, an activist of Shehri-Citizens for a Better Environment (Shehri-CBE) said on Wednesday, while citing a 2004 report of the science and technology ministry’s Pakistan Council for Research in Water Resources (PCRWR).
During a lecture at the office of the Urban Resource Centre (URC), Sadiq said that these brands were found to be unsafe by none other than the government of Pakistan due to poor microbiological and chemical quality. Small wonder then, that on December 31, 2004, the Supreme Court of Pakistan was compelled to take a serious view of the report, he said, adding however, that sadly, one finds various unsafe brands of bottled water being marketed with impunity in the impoverished country.
On November 30, 2004, the Sindh High Court (SHC) also made history when it restrained an international water company from providing water in “Education City” at the Super Highway, Karachi, for American soldiers fighting the “war on terror” in Afghanistan, he said.
Had the SHC not done this, the Gadap aquifer would have been drained, affecting the lives and livelihood of the local population.
Sadiq said that as many as 200 billion bottles of water were produced across the world every year for a whopping $50billion business. One liter of bottled water in Pakistan costs 30 times more than the same amount of tap water, he added.
Bottled water means environmental degradation of the worst and involved the wastage of precious resources, Sadiq said. Around 200 billion plastic bottles are produced across the world every year and only 20 per cent of them are re-cycled, which is perhaps why the developed world, which is short of landfills, has found the developing world to be an ideal dumping ground of plastic waste, he said.
“Bottled water is one of the biggest scams of our time,” he said. Common folk and the elite alike are given the impression that bottled water was “pure” “safe” and “fresh” and has pristine labels — this, however, is a farce, Sadiq claimed.
Bottled water was first introduced in Pakistan in 1968, and amazingly, while the worldwide growth of bottled water was 24 per cent per annum; it was 40 per cent per annum in Pakistan, he said, adding that common folk were finding it increasingly difficult to get water in Pakistan.
Four factors push the demand for bottled water: exaggerated fear of tap water; seduction of mineral water bottles; corruption of the government; and the greed of the corporate sector, Sadiq said. The Karachi Water & Sewerage Board (KWSB) has a foreign debt of Rs 42 billion and no donor is ready to help anymore, he said.
“The plain truth is that there is no water shortage in Karachi because it receives 695 million gallons every day,” Sadiq said, adding however, that a major chunk of this is lost due to theft, pilferage and faulty lines.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Coke's Chinese Greenwash
Hurdler twists bottles for environment
April 28, 2010
China Daily - Hong Kong Edition
Star hurdler Liu Xiang's popularity and influence among sports fans earned him another special role on Monday in Shenzhen as he joined in an environment protection campaign as an ambassador.
The "I Twist for Green" campaign was launched by Coca-Cola's drinking water brand, ICE Dew, which features eco-friendly, lightweight bottles for consumers.
The bottles are specially designed so they can be easily twisted and compressed after consumption, thereby saving more than 70 percent of the space needed while the bottle makes its way to recycling.
"It's very interesting. The bottle shows us environmental protection can be really simple and fun," said Liu. "I have to drink a lot during training and the bottle gives me the chance to do something for environmental protection. Everyone should be part of it."
Liu revealed some good habits in daily life.
"I ride my bicycle from home to my training base. I have also told my family and friends to drive less. Besides, I also try to save water every day."
The Ice Dew lightweight bottle will be launched in Shenzhen, Xi'an, Xiamen, Nanjing, Hangzhou and other cities in May and then throughout the country.
The launch also comes in time for the Shanghai Expo and, with Coca-Cola as a sponsor and beverage partner, the lightweight bottle will be available to the expected 70 million visitors.
April 28, 2010
China Daily - Hong Kong Edition
Star hurdler Liu Xiang's popularity and influence among sports fans earned him another special role on Monday in Shenzhen as he joined in an environment protection campaign as an ambassador.
The "I Twist for Green" campaign was launched by Coca-Cola's drinking water brand, ICE Dew, which features eco-friendly, lightweight bottles for consumers.
The bottles are specially designed so they can be easily twisted and compressed after consumption, thereby saving more than 70 percent of the space needed while the bottle makes its way to recycling.
"It's very interesting. The bottle shows us environmental protection can be really simple and fun," said Liu. "I have to drink a lot during training and the bottle gives me the chance to do something for environmental protection. Everyone should be part of it."
Liu revealed some good habits in daily life.
"I ride my bicycle from home to my training base. I have also told my family and friends to drive less. Besides, I also try to save water every day."
The Ice Dew lightweight bottle will be launched in Shenzhen, Xi'an, Xiamen, Nanjing, Hangzhou and other cities in May and then throughout the country.
The launch also comes in time for the Shanghai Expo and, with Coca-Cola as a sponsor and beverage partner, the lightweight bottle will be available to the expected 70 million visitors.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Pepsico's 'purity' claim challenged
Pepsico's 'purity' claim challenged
March 24, 2010
Hindustan Times
New Delhi, March 24 -- Does the phrase "purity guaranteed" mislead you while purchasing packaged drinking water?
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) believes it does. The bureau has even moved the Supreme Court to restrain Pepsico from using the phrase on its packaged water under the brand, Aquafina.
BIS has challenged a Delhi High Court verdict that allows the multinational to print "purity guaranteed" on its packaged water bottles. Water is not a single homogenous unit like petrol or oil and cannot be termed as pure, BIS has argued in its appeal against High Court judgment, permitting use of the "objectionable expression".
BIS's appeal states that pure water would only be distilled water used in batteries, which is not fit for human consumption. Hence, the use of words such as "pure" and "purity guaranteed" on packaged drinking water is a misnomer.
Water sold in packaged form, says BIS, is derived from any source of potable water and is later subjected to treatments, such as decantation, filtration, aeration and other methods to meet the prescribed standards.
"It may be disinfected by means of chemical agents or physical methods to reduce the micro-organisms to a level that would not lead to contamination in the drinking water, but a level that does not compromise food safety or suitability," reads the BIS appeal.
It adds the multinational organizations in trade or commerce are duty bound to take precautions and safeguards to promote and protect the rights of human beings, including their health and safety.
"Restrictions on the use of trade marks to achieve the said objectives is fair and reasonable," says BIS.Published by HT Syndication with permission from Hindustan Times.
March 24, 2010
Hindustan Times
New Delhi, March 24 -- Does the phrase "purity guaranteed" mislead you while purchasing packaged drinking water?
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) believes it does. The bureau has even moved the Supreme Court to restrain Pepsico from using the phrase on its packaged water under the brand, Aquafina.
BIS has challenged a Delhi High Court verdict that allows the multinational to print "purity guaranteed" on its packaged water bottles. Water is not a single homogenous unit like petrol or oil and cannot be termed as pure, BIS has argued in its appeal against High Court judgment, permitting use of the "objectionable expression".
BIS's appeal states that pure water would only be distilled water used in batteries, which is not fit for human consumption. Hence, the use of words such as "pure" and "purity guaranteed" on packaged drinking water is a misnomer.
Water sold in packaged form, says BIS, is derived from any source of potable water and is later subjected to treatments, such as decantation, filtration, aeration and other methods to meet the prescribed standards.
"It may be disinfected by means of chemical agents or physical methods to reduce the micro-organisms to a level that would not lead to contamination in the drinking water, but a level that does not compromise food safety or suitability," reads the BIS appeal.
It adds the multinational organizations in trade or commerce are duty bound to take precautions and safeguards to promote and protect the rights of human beings, including their health and safety.
"Restrictions on the use of trade marks to achieve the said objectives is fair and reasonable," says BIS.Published by HT Syndication with permission from Hindustan Times.
Monday, March 22, 2010
WORLDWIDE RELEASE – The Story of Bottled Water
RELEASED TODAY! The Polaris Institute is proud to co-release the Story of Bottled Water – a 7 minute animated film exposing the truth about bottled water. Co-produced by the Story of Stuff Project, the Polaris Institute and other leading organizations, the film exposes the bottled water industry and makes the case for the public tap.
WATCH IT NOW
Take action now in 3 easy steps:
1. Watch the video online
2. Visit www.storyofbottledwater.org for additional resources and information
3. Send this email to 5 friends and encourage them to find out the real Story of Bottled Water
Thanks,
The Polaris Institute InsideTheBottle.org campaign team
Tony, Joe, Richard, Elly, Tanya, Daniel, and Cam
WATCH IT NOW
Take action now in 3 easy steps:
1. Watch the video online
2. Visit www.storyofbottledwater.org for additional resources and information
3. Send this email to 5 friends and encourage them to find out the real Story of Bottled Water
Thanks,
The Polaris Institute InsideTheBottle.org campaign team
Tony, Joe, Richard, Elly, Tanya, Daniel, and Cam
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Thousands Mark Canadaʼs First Bottled Water Free Day
For immediate release
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Thousands Mark Canadaʼs First Bottled Water Free Day
OTTAWA ––Today, Canadians across the country are participating in Canadaʼs first Bottled Water Free Day. Organised by the Canadian Federation of Students, Sierra Youth Coalition and the Polaris Institute, Bottled Water Free Day is intended to raise awareness about the negative impacts of bottled water.
“Across the country students are standing up against the wasteful bottled water industry,” said Noah Stewart, National Deputy Chairperson of the Canadian Federation of Students. “Tired of having to pay Coca Cola, Pepsi or Nestle for a drink of water weʼre calling on schools to ban the sale of bottled water and re-invest in water fountains.”
Highlights of Bottled Water Free Day include:
* Events on more than 60 university and college campuses across the country
* An announcement that Ryerson University will stop selling and distributing bottled
water
* The public release of documents, obtained through an Access to Information request,
showing that the CBC spent nearly $500,000 on bottled water between 2004 and
2008
“The success of Bottled Water Free Day shows the strength of the back-to-the-tap
movement,” says Elly Adeland, Water and Energy Campaigner for the Polaris Institute.
“Bottled Water sales in North America have plummeted and across the country Canadians are pledging to kick the bottle – clearly the tap is making a comeback.”
Bottled Water Free Day is taking place after years of escalating bottled water backlash in Canada. To date 76 municipalities, 4 municipal associations (including the Federation of Canadian Municipalities), 8 school boards, 5 university campuses and countless businesses have implemented restrictions on bottled water.
For a full list of events and endorsing organisations visit: www.bottledwaterfreeday.ca
- 30 -
For more information, please contact:
Noah Stewart, Canadian Federation of Students, (613) 232-7394
Elly Adeland, Polaris Institute (613) 237-1717 x104
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Thousands Mark Canadaʼs First Bottled Water Free Day
OTTAWA ––Today, Canadians across the country are participating in Canadaʼs first Bottled Water Free Day. Organised by the Canadian Federation of Students, Sierra Youth Coalition and the Polaris Institute, Bottled Water Free Day is intended to raise awareness about the negative impacts of bottled water.
“Across the country students are standing up against the wasteful bottled water industry,” said Noah Stewart, National Deputy Chairperson of the Canadian Federation of Students. “Tired of having to pay Coca Cola, Pepsi or Nestle for a drink of water weʼre calling on schools to ban the sale of bottled water and re-invest in water fountains.”
Highlights of Bottled Water Free Day include:
* Events on more than 60 university and college campuses across the country
* An announcement that Ryerson University will stop selling and distributing bottled
water
* The public release of documents, obtained through an Access to Information request,
showing that the CBC spent nearly $500,000 on bottled water between 2004 and
2008
“The success of Bottled Water Free Day shows the strength of the back-to-the-tap
movement,” says Elly Adeland, Water and Energy Campaigner for the Polaris Institute.
“Bottled Water sales in North America have plummeted and across the country Canadians are pledging to kick the bottle – clearly the tap is making a comeback.”
Bottled Water Free Day is taking place after years of escalating bottled water backlash in Canada. To date 76 municipalities, 4 municipal associations (including the Federation of Canadian Municipalities), 8 school boards, 5 university campuses and countless businesses have implemented restrictions on bottled water.
For a full list of events and endorsing organisations visit: www.bottledwaterfreeday.ca
- 30 -
For more information, please contact:
Noah Stewart, Canadian Federation of Students, (613) 232-7394
Elly Adeland, Polaris Institute (613) 237-1717 x104
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Thousands of Canadians to Participate in Canada’s First Bottled Water Free Day on March 11th
MEDIA ADVISORY
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Thousands of Canadians to Participate in Canada’s First Bottled Water Free Day on March 11th
OTTAWA – On Thursday March 11, Canadians from coast to coast will be participating in Canada’s first Bottled Water Free Day.
Highlights of Bottled Water Free Day include:
Announcements by Ryerson University regarding the sale of bottled water; events on more than 60 college and university campuses; the release of data on spending by the CBC on bottled water obtained through an Access to Information Request.
More than 70 organisations, institutions and municipalities including the Sierra Club of Canada, Canadian Labour Congress, City of Sudbury, and Durham Catholic District School Board have endorsed Bottled Water Free Day to date.
Bottled Water Free Day is organised by the Canadian Federation of Students, Sierra Youth Coalition and the Polaris Institute.
For a full list of events and endorsing organisations visit: www.bottledwaterfreeday.ca
- 30 -
For more information, please contact:
Noah Stewart, Canadian Federation of Students, (613) 232-7394 dchair@cfs-fcee.ca
Elly Adeland, Polaris Institute (613) 237-1717 x104 elly@polarisinstitute.org
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Thousands of Canadians to Participate in Canada’s First Bottled Water Free Day on March 11th
OTTAWA – On Thursday March 11, Canadians from coast to coast will be participating in Canada’s first Bottled Water Free Day.
Highlights of Bottled Water Free Day include:
Announcements by Ryerson University regarding the sale of bottled water; events on more than 60 college and university campuses; the release of data on spending by the CBC on bottled water obtained through an Access to Information Request.
More than 70 organisations, institutions and municipalities including the Sierra Club of Canada, Canadian Labour Congress, City of Sudbury, and Durham Catholic District School Board have endorsed Bottled Water Free Day to date.
Bottled Water Free Day is organised by the Canadian Federation of Students, Sierra Youth Coalition and the Polaris Institute.
For a full list of events and endorsing organisations visit: www.bottledwaterfreeday.ca
- 30 -
For more information, please contact:
Noah Stewart, Canadian Federation of Students, (613) 232-7394 dchair@cfs-fcee.ca
Elly Adeland, Polaris Institute (613) 237-1717 x104 elly@polarisinstitute.org
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