Save Water

Water

Water is a necessity for the survival of humans, which is why providing sufficient clean water for a growing world population is a central challenge for the 21st century. Fresh water is essential for the production of industrial and agricultural products, many of which you can find in your local Lidl store. 70% of the water resources used worldwide are used by agriculture – the majority being used for irrigation and the production of food. 20% is used by industry and 10% is used in the household area. In addition to its enormous consumption of water, industry and agricultural production processes also contribute to water pollution.

Using Water Consciously

For Lidl, water is not a problem for the future but an important topic for now. Agriculture consumes particularly large volumes of water, and thereby has a responsibility to participate in limiting the negative effects of this use. Taking responsibility when it comes to water and using it more efficiently as a resource is very important to us. By taking initiative to reduce our own water consumption and keeping water use in mind along our supply chain, we can be more aware of our water footprint. To do this, we source certified and sustainable products whenever possible.

Our Commitment to Water

Lidl Group is involved in the topic of water management to actively initiate change. One measure is to expand the number of certified products in the assortment where water is an increased focus. Therefore, we support recognized labeling initiatives while promoting minimum standards for sustainable production practices. For example, Lidl Group is a member of the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS), which has the goal of pursuing socially fair, ecologically sustainable and economically beneficial water use. The AWS is the first international standard that measures water use at a location based on social, environmental and economic criteria with an independent, verifiable framework.

In December 2014, as part of the Detox Commitment initiated by Greenpeace, Lidl committed to largely eliminate the use and release of the 11 chemical groups classified by Greenpeace as "high priority" from its textile and shoe production by 2020. In accordance with the Detox Commitment, the waste water and sewage sludge in our production facilities must be tested for pollutants at least once per year in order to ensure the implementation of our chemical specifications. Although the campaign reached its conclusion, the work remains ongoing.

Every Drop Counts

We also want to encourage water consumption awareness by featuring a “Save Water” label on select products which requires water in order to use them. Customers can both think about reducing their water usage before purchase, and again while using the products. Everyone should do what they can to reduce water consumption and contribute to the preservation of water resources.

Tips for Saving Water

Lastly, here are some tips for how you can save water at home:

Turn the faucet off while brushing your teeth. That can save over 2 gallons of water per minute.
Always run the washing machine with a full load (see the manufacturer’s instructions on volume) and wash at as low of a temperature as possible – it’s better for the climate. Often 86° F is enough.
Showering instead of taking a bath also can reduce water consumption by up to 2/3.
Don’t let the tap run when washing your hands.
Put fruits and vegetables in a bowl with water for a few minutes to wash them, and then let them drain in a strainer. Bonus Tip: You can also use the water to pour over your plants.