Water is one of our planet’s most precious resources—essential for life, industry, and communities. At Kohler, we believe that sustainable, resilient communities support sustainable, resilient businesses. That’s why we are committed to being an integral part of the communities where we live and work, ensuring that we contribute to strong local ecosystems through responsible resource management. With a long-standing history of giving back, we view water stewardship as both a responsibility and an opportunity to create lasting impact.

A Region Facing Growing Water Challenges

For years, Kohler has been dedicated to responsible water management in Monterrey, Mexico, an industrial hub home to more than five million people. Water scarcity has long been a concern in the region, but the severe drought of 2023 heightened the urgency of sustainable solutions. Kohler had already been working on conservation and efficiency measures, but as the crisis escalated, we intensified our efforts—focusing on solutions that ensure long-term water security for both the community and our operations.

Kohler’s Source-to-Tap Approach in Action

Kohler’s water stewardship efforts extend beyond product innovation. In Monterrey, we have taken a comprehensive approach, focusing on three key areas: restoring natural water sources, improving water efficiency in operations, and enabling access to clean water in the community.

Restoring the Watershed: Partnering for a Sustainable Future

To address long-term water availability, Kohler has partnered with The Nature Conservancy to help restore Monterrey’s watershed. By planting trees, building firebreaks, and implementing soil conservation strategies, we are working to replenish the local aquifer and ensure a more resilient water supply for future generations.

Inside Our Operations: Cutting Water Use and Driving Innovation

At our Sanimex manufacturing facility in Monterrey, Mexico, Kohler is pioneering ways to minimize fresh water consumption:

• Advanced water recycling: An 80% wastewater recycling system dramatically reduces reliance on fresh water, setting a new standard for sustainable manufacturing. 
• Smart water efficiency measures: From installing foot pedals on faucets to using recycled water in certain manufacturing processes, small but impactful initiatives drive water conservation. 
• Employee engagement: Our associates are empowered to contribute to water-saving innovations, making sustainability a shared responsibility.

Supporting the Community: Rainwater Harvesting for Schools

Beyond our operations, Kohler is working to ensure water access for Monterrey’s most vulnerable populations. Through a collaboration with Isla Urbana, we have helped implement rainwater harvesting systems in local schools, ensuring that students have access to clean water even during shortages. These systems provide a dependable, sustainable water source that keeps classrooms open and supports community resilience.

A Blueprint for Global Water Stewardship

The work in Monterrey is just one chapter in Kohler’s larger water story. From watershed restoration in India to sustainable product innovation through the 50L Home Coalition, our mission is clear: to safeguard water resources and drive meaningful change. 

By integrating water stewardship into our business—from source to tap—we are proving that sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand. Together, we can build a future where water is preserved, protected, and available for all.