Operational water risk management at WEPA: the Cassino plant as an example
The European paper industry bears a special responsibility for the sustainable use of water resources. This is particularly evident against the backdrop of increasing climate-related conflicts over water use: in recent years, thermal power plants in France and Italy have had to reduce their output on several occasions because it was no longer possible to extract sufficient cooling water from rivers during heat waves. Against this backdrop, one key question is becoming increasingly important: How can we secure water resources while remaining competitive? As a water-intensive company, the WEPA Group goes beyond traditional site optimization and takes a holistic approach to water stewardship.
As part of its 2030 sustainability strategy, WEPA aims to reduce its operational water risk to a low level and not allow any sites with a high risk category. This is based on a systematic risk analysis using the WWF Water Risk Filter, supplemented by context-based water targets for each catchment area. The measures range from technological innovations and organizational approaches to cooperation along the value chain – with clear ecological and economic advantages: lower water consumption means lower costs, greater resilience, and long-term site and production security.
The Cassino plant in southern Italy shows how this approach works in practice. The BlueWater initiative, launched in 2024, is a major project that not only raises awareness but also delivers concrete results: in collaboration with a local university, a savings potential of over 30% was identified – much of which has already been realized. The result: significant cost reductions, new optimization opportunities, and strengthened risk management.
The experience in Cassino makes it clear that operational water risk management is not a mandatory exercise, but a strategic lever for sustainable, economical corporate management. Water stewardship means taking responsibility – for water as a resource, for society, and for the future viability of the company.