World’s leading drinks producers agree efforts to reduced harmful use of alcohol

“Moving forward with a new round of programs to further address challenging issues highlights the commitments that these leading  industry members are taking for continued progress in this area,” he said.

Marcus Grant said: “Many of these commitments are closely tied to the core functions in how these companies operate, and are being made in addition to the many programs already underway to address critical issues in developing nations such as drink driving, strengthening codes of responsible marketing of alcohol, and studying the health and economic impact of the production of illicit alcohol.”

“Equally important is the commitment to rigorous standards of evaluation, which are intended to help assure that these efforts are being put in place in a timely way that meets the intended goals,” said Grant.

About the Global Actions conference

The Global Actions: Initiatives to Reduce Harmful Drinking international conference, a two-day event, began with a comprehensive report on the industry actions in support of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Global Strategy to Reduce the Harmful Use of Alcohol.

The conference was held to offer an opportunity to take comprehensive stock of what has been accomplished by these initiatives, which are being implemented in partnership with governments, civil society and other stakeholders worldwide. On the second day of the conference, October 9, 2012, the news-breaking pledges were made public in front of a live audience.

About ICAP

The International Centre for Alcohol Policies (ICAP: www.icap.org) is a not-for-profit organisation supported by major international producers of beverage alcohol. Established in 1995, ICAP’s mission is to promote understanding of the role of alcohol in society and to help reduce harmful drinking worldwide.

ICAP’s efforts to foster dialogue and partnerships in the alcohol policy field are shaped by its commitment to pragmatic and feasible solutions to reducing harm that can be tailored to local and cultural considerations and needs. ICAP has been recognised by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UN ECOSOC) as a non-governmental organisation in Special Consultative Status.

About GAPG

Established in 2005, the Global Alcohol Producers Group (GAP Group) is a coalition of industry members representing leading international beer, wine and spirits companies. It provides a reciprocal channel for the leading alcohol beverage companies to engage in constructive dialogue on the harmful use of alcohol with the World Health Organisation (WHO), member states and other stakeholders.