Packs and Closures

The Natural Hydration Council was launched today (1 September) to research and promote the environmental, health and other sustainable benefits of natural bottled water.

The council has been formed by Danone Waters (UK & Ireland), Highland Spring and Nestlé Waters UK.

Its aim will be to provide authoritative information and advice for researchers, government, the industry, media and public about the economic and social value and impact of bottled water.

Paolo Sangiorgi, managing director of Nestlé Waters UK, said: "Not many people realise that natural bottled water comes from fully sustainable sources and in recyclable packaging.

"We need the council to undertake new research and communicate the facts to ensure fully informed consumer choices."

UK bottled water consumption amounted to 2.2 billion litres in 2007, volumes have risen 143% in the ten years since 1997, but fell 4% in 2007 after poor summer weather.