International Bottled Water Association

International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) is a trade association representing the bottled water industry. Founded in 1958, the IBWA's member companies include bottled water producers, suppliers, and distributors from around the world. The association is headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, United States.

History

The International Bottled Water Association was established in 1958. Its primary goal was to provide a unified voice for the bottled water industry and to ensure the highest standards of quality for bottled water products. Over the years, the association has grown to represent a diverse range of companies in the bottled water industry, from small family-owned businesses to large multinational corporations.

Role and Activities

The IBWA is involved in a wide range of activities related to the bottled water industry. These include lobbying on behalf of the industry, providing educational resources, and setting industry standards for quality and safety. The association also conducts research and provides data on the bottled water industry.

One of the key roles of the IBWA is to establish and maintain industry standards for bottled water. These standards, which are often more stringent than those set by government regulatory bodies, cover everything from source water protection to bottling procedures and labeling requirements.

Criticism and Controversy

The International Bottled Water Association has faced criticism and controversy over the years. Critics argue that the bottled water industry contributes to environmental degradation through the production and disposal of plastic bottles. The IBWA has responded to these criticisms by promoting recycling and other environmental initiatives within the industry.

See Also

• Bottled water
• Trade association
• Water industry