2026 Impact Awards Winner: Carlsberg Canada

Water is the most important ingredient in beer, accounting for more than 90% of every brew. Recognizing both the importance of water stewardship and the growing challenges associated with water scarcity, Carlsberg Canada embarked on a multi-year strategy to reduce water and utility consumption across its operations as part of its global Together Towards Zero and Beyond (TTZAB) sustainability ambitions.

In 2024, Carlsberg Canada completed significant water efficiency upgrades at its Kitchener, Ont. production facility through a partnership with the Region of Waterloo’s Water Efficient Technology (WET) Program. 

These investments were designed to improve visibility into water consumption, strengthen operational controls and drive meaningful reductions in resource use. In recognition of these efforts, Carlsberg Canada was honoured with the 2025 Annual Water Efficiency Excellence Award from the Region of Waterloo. 

TTZAB is Carlsberg’s response to global challenges, including climate change, water scarcity, packaging waste, carbon emissions, irresponsible drinking and societal well-being. 

Water stewardship is particularly meaningful in Waterloo Region, the largest community in Canada to rely primarily on groundwater as its drinking source. By reducing consumption, Carlsberg is not only lowering its environmental footprint, but also helping preserve a vital community resource. 

Through the collaboration, Carlsberg implemented several major water efficiency upgrades throughout its Kitchener facility, including elements enabling the team to establish accurate baseline consumption measurements, improve process monitoring, strengthen anomaly detection and drive excellence across operations. 

As a result, Carlsberg Canada reduced water consumption by 100,000 cubic metres between 2023 and 2024, the equivalent of supplying more than 450 homes with water for an entire year. The initiative was the largest water savings initiative ever undertaken through the WET Program. 

By continuing to identify efficiencies and implement innovative solutions, Carlsberg Canada is committed to create lasting environmental benefits for both the business and their surrounding communities.