CO2 reduction targets achieved early by five years
According to a report by the Food and Drink Federation (FDF) its food and drink member companies have achieved a 55% reduction in CO2 emissions already, five years before the target was due to be reached.
Targets initially set in 2016 as part of the organisations ‘Ambition 2025 project’ aims to set achievable sustainability targets for food and drink companies in order to work towards a thriving and sustainable UK food and drink industry.
Following the progress made by members, the FDF undertook a review of the former targets and revised these, creating the ‘Ambition 2025 Mid-Term Report’. As a result, the FDF has updated its ambitions on carbon, food waste and packaging to better reflect the current UK and international targets, as well as other policy goals in the space.
Other notable achievements include the FDF’s work on water, where between 2007 and 2019, FDF members reduced their absolute water consumption by more than one third (41.5%) and the amount of water consumed per tonne of product was also reduced by 44.5% in the same period.
“The FDF’s support for the Courtauld 2025 targets and the UK Plastics Pact have the potential to make a real difference to how the nation uses its resources more sustainably and minimises waste.”
The report also highlights the contribution FDF members have made to reducing food waste, including the progress made under the UK Food Waste Reduction Roadmap. In addition, the FDF claims there has been substantial engagement with UK Governments on the packaging policy reforms alongside its ongoing support for work of the UK Plastics Pact.
Environment Minister, Rebecca Pow MP, commented: “We all need to play our part to protect and improve our environment. The Food and Drink sector’s commitment shows it is leading British business to greater levels of sustainability.
“The FDF’s support for the Courtauld 2025 targets and the UK Plastics Pact have the potential to make a real difference to how the nation uses its resources more sustainably and minimises waste, both vital to making progress in the Government’s 25 Year Environment Plan.”
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