This project has been recognised as a commendation of the 2025 Responsible Care Awards.
Water is essential to the chemical industry, but its sustainable use is becoming an urgent priority. In response, France Chimie, the trade organization representing chemical companies in France, launched a dedicated support program to help chemical manufacturers monitor, manage, and improve water efficiency across their sites. Designed with long-term impact in mind, the initiative provides practical guidance and tools to reduce water withdrawals while promoting responsible resource management.
Practical tools and guidance
The program combines information sessions, self-assessment tools, and a practical guide developed with technical support from Aquassay, specialised in water efficiency solutions for industry. This program has been developed with financial backing from the Seine Normandy Water Agency. Chemical sites can evaluate their water usage, identify efficiency opportunities, and implement concrete measures to reduce consumption. The initiative transforms abstract sustainability goals into actionable steps, making water management easier, measurable, and more effective for both large and small facilities.
Expanding reach and capacity building
Building on its initial success, the program evolved in 2024–2025 to provide individual support for members completing the water self-assessment. France Chimie also translated the tools into English to share them with ICCA and Cefic members, extending the initiative’s reach to the global worldwide chemical sector. Beyond chemicals, the tools have been shared with related industries in France, including paper, cosmetics, paints and plastics processing, spreading sustainable water practices more broadly.
Impact and added value
This program embodies the Responsible Care® spirit of capacity building, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement. By equipping companies with actionable tools and guidance, it empowers the industry to manage water more efficiently, reduce environmental impacts, and embed sustainability into day-to-day operations.
This initiative, which has received both a commendation in 2025 and a winning award in 2023 for the Responsible Care Awards, demonstrates that water stewardship can be practical, scalable, and globally relevant, reinforcing the chemical sector’s commitment to responsible and sustainable industrial practices.