Water management

The Company assesses water-related risks using the Aqueduct Water Risk Atlas 4.0 developed by the World Resources Institute (WRI). This careful assessment model covers the following: Physical Risk Quantity (e.g., baseline water stress, riverine flood risk, and drought risk), Physical Risk Quality, and Regulatory and Reputational Risks for the Company’s manufacturing facilities and critical tier 1 suppliers.

The Aqueduct tool categorizes risks into four levels: Low (<10%), Low–Medium (10–20%), Medium–High (20–40%), and High (40–80%).

The Company’s factories are classified as Medium–High (20–40%) in terms of water risk.

While not considered high-risk, water-related issues are actively managed through continuous monitoring, and by carefully identifying both the risks and the opportunities.

Aware that water supply and resources are at risk due to climate change, the Company uses the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) framework in integrating climate change considerations into its business operations and goals.

Adaptation measures are also in place to address specific risks, such as water scarcity, drought, and flooding.

These efforts are tracked with the KPIs to reduce water usage, identify alternative water sources, and create emergency plans, in case of flooding, at each site.

Our progress

In 2024, the Company launched a zero-discharge project at its Songkhla factory, which was completed in October 2024. This initiative led to a 14% reduction in water withdrawal intensity compared to 2023.

The project is part of the Company’s Dry Concept Strategy, which begins with a comprehensive water assessment procedure. Water is reused and recycled in non-food and non-human contact areas, all under strict control and in compliance with food safety standards.

The initiative also helps reduce wastage during processing and enhances the efficiency of wastewater treatment.

By implementing the Dry Concept Strategy, the Company’s factories are able to achieve a 9% reduction in water withdrawal intensity compared to 2023.

Case study in i-Tail Songkhla

i-Tail Songkhla is one of the Company’s key manufacturing facilities located in southern Thailand.

In 2024, the company continued to focus on environmental sustainability by implementing its Zero-Discharge Project. This initiative aimed to reduce water consumption and improve wastewater management through recycling and reusing water within the facility.

Water Recycling Facility:

The newly completed recycling facility plays a crucial role in the zero-discharge approach, ensuring that water used in the production process is treated and reused within the plant. This reduces dependency on external water sources and minimizes wastewater discharge into the environment.

Sustainable Water Usage:

Through the implementation of water-saving technologies and the use of its recycling facility, water consumption at i-Tail Songkhla became more efficient and on par with global standards in resources management.