EXPERTISE & REGULATION
AGEC Act 2025: A Comprehensive Guide to Drinking Water in the Workplace.
Water in the office is no longer just a convenience; it has become a legal, environmental, and strategic issue. The AGEC Law (Anti-Waste for a Circular Economy) requires French companies to reduce single-use plastics and promote responsible water solutions.
The Essentials of Sustainable Water Management:
- • Ensure regulatory compliance (AGEC Act).
- • Reduce our environmental impact and eliminate plastic bottles.
- • Optimize costs and enhance employee well-being.
- • Install a microfiltered water fountain as a strategic CSR lever.
Drinking water at work: a legal requirement
The Labor Code (Article R4225-2) states: “The employer shall provide workers with fresh, potable water to drink.”
What all companies must ensure:
- Free and easy access
- Safe drinking water
- Sufficient availability
Public establishments with a capacity of 301 people or more must also be equipped with water fountains that are freely accessible and free of charge, according to the Environmental Code (Article D541-340).
AGEC Act: Reducing Plastic and Adopting Sustainable Solutions
Since 2021, the AGEC Act has encouraged the phased elimination of free plastic bottles and the promotion of reusable alternatives. For businesses, this means:
- Reduce the number of single-use plastic bottles by 50% by 2030
- Achieve zero single-use plastic by 2040
- Adopting sustainable water solutions
Sustainable water solutions
Mains-connected microfiltered water dispenser
Connected directly to the water supply, the dispenser purifies water on demand (zero waste, reduced carbon footprint, compliant with the AGEC Act, offering fresh, still, or sparkling water).
Reusable containers
Water bottles, carafes, and glass bottles to eliminate disposable containers and enhance the company’s image.
Returnable bottles
An interim solution that reduces plastic use while maintaining transportation logistics.
Comparison: Plastic Bottles vs. Mains-Connected Water Dispensers
FAQ — Drinking Water and the AGEC Act
Yes, it is a legal requirement for all businesses.
The AGEC Act encourages their phased-out and promotes sustainable alternatives.
A mains-connected microfiltered water dispenser is the best solution.
Yes, regardless of their size or industry.
Turning a challenge into an opportunity
Installing a microfiltered water cooler ensures a constant supply of water, eliminates the need for plastic bottles, and reduces the environmental impact. This solution transforms water management into a strategic and responsible tool, fully aligned with the AGEC Act and current CSR challenges.