KT&G (CEO Kyung-man Bang)'s major manufacturing facility, the Yeongju factory, has been awarded the 'Platinum' certification by the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS).

AWS, the world's largest water management certification body, assesses whether companies have established a stable and comprehensive water resource management system. The evaluation covers approximately 100 criteria including ▲ stable water management, ▲ water quality and sanitation, and ▲ impacts on the ecosystem within the watershed. Ratings are classified into three levels: Platinum, Gold, and Core, with Platinum being the highest. 

The KT&G Yeongju factory received high marks for its efforts in water use reduction and water resource protection. Notably, it was recognized for its achievements in analyzing and mitigating water risks in river basins such as the Nakdong River and Seocheon River, establishing a water resource council with participation from local governments and public institutions, and designating areas like Doline and Janggu-megi wetlands as protected water areas to conserve the ecosystem.

With this AWS Platinum certification, KT&G plans to expand global water resource certification to its domestic and international factories by 2030.

Furthermore, KT&G is committed to fulfilling environmental responsibilities across its value chain and accelerating the circular economy. To this end, it has set a mid-to-long-term goal to reduce water intake by 20% by 2030, and last year, KT&G’s manufacturing facilities reduced water intake by 8.7% compared to 2020.

Jeong-hoo Kim, the manager of KT&G's Yeongju factory, stated, “Obtaining AWS certification recognizes our efforts in systematic water management and the restoration of protected water areas,” and added, “We will continue to enhance our water resource management system across the facility and collaborate with local communities, public organizations, and civic groups to conserve water resources.”

(Photo Description 1) The KT&G Yeongju factory has been awarded the Platinum rating by the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) for its efforts in water management and ecosystem conservation. The photo shows a view of the Yeongju factory, which achieved the AWS Platinum rating.

(Photo Description 2) The AWS certification mark.