Step 1: Mapping water consumption and risks
Our analysis focused on the company's production sites in Turnhout. "We mapped out the impacts and dependencies of water consumption for both Astra Sweets and its value chain," says Eva Schobyn, Sustainability Consultant and project leader at Pantarein. "We also examined the climate-related risks the company faces; based on climate models and scientific studies, we evaluated their probability and severity. This enabled us to determine what is material for the company."
The results show that Astra Sweets' water consumption has a limited impact in relation to regional water supplies. However, its dependence on water – including the availability of clean water – is considerable. "Water stress poses a real risk to Astra Sweets and its suppliers. According to sources such as the Aqueduct Water Risk Atlas, demand in Flanders already exceeds supply."
Step 2: Drawing up an adaptation plan
Based on our analysis, we made strategic recommendations and drew up a plan with targeted measures, focusing on – among other things – adaptive technologies, process innovations and infrastructure upgrades. Jan Verhaert, Project Management Officer at Astra Sweets: "Thanks to the thorough analysis, we now have substantiated insights that strengthen our strategic decision-making."
Step 3: Developing future scenarios
One possible avenue is the purification of wastewater with a high sugar content, linked to energy recovery. Mandatory rainwater recovery can also alleviate water stress. Pantarein Water is investigating the various scenarios, says CEO Piet De Langhe. "First, we accurately mapped the composition of Astra Sweets' wastewater. We are currently making projections for 2030 and 2045 and estimating the costs of each scenario. We will be able to provide a definitive update in a month's time."
Step 4: Translating insights into concrete water policy
In order to translate the adaptation plan with targeted measures into practice, we developed a water policy. Eva: "In it, we describe Astra Sweets' ambitions, obligations and measures regarding sustainable water management. We formulated four priorities: efficient water use, pollution prevention, sustainable water management and climate adaptation. For each priority, we developed objectives, policies, responsibilities and KPIs."
