Summary
We are proud to announce Farm Frites’ has performed well and met its bold statements in reducing carbon footprint, improving energy efficiency, and in having established a clear packaging strategy. We conclude that on most environmental KPIs we are on track. Some extra efforts are needed in terms of packaging reductions and increasing the share of renewable energy at our factories.
How we did do in 2019
We have improved our energy consumption per tonne of product. Compared to 2018, we use 4.6% less natural gas and electricity. This leads to an improvement of the carbon footprint of the factories, reducing with a similar 5% less GHG emissions per tonne of product. The share of renewable energy sources remained stable at around 5% of the total energy consumption. Finally, water consumption also lowered in 2019, with about 8.7% compared to previous year.
2019 saw the light of the Green Circles initiative, a unique collaboration with knowledge institutes and local government with a common dream to achieve a world class, sustainable potato chain. Within Green Circles some interesting projects have started such as a soil health projects with five local farmers and the construction of a bee-friendly nature wall on factory site. In the chilled fries’ factory, an innovation led to a significant water and energy consumption. The phasing out of a blancher created a quality improvement as well as a reduction of our environmental footprint. The factory in Egypt underwent a total makeover; a second production line was added with capability to produce natural coated products and a new water treatment plant was installed too.
We have signed the commitment letter to the Science Based Targets initiative, meaning that we will align our reduction roadmaps in line with what international climate scientists deem necessary to limit global warming and remain within 2 degrees Celsius.
How did we do in 2019 versus 2018?
Climate change & emissions
- 4.6% less energy consumption per tonne of product.
- Stable renewable energy share of 5%.
- 5% less carbon emissions per tonne of product.
Sustainable packaging
- Small increase of packaging material per tonne of product due to transition phase.
- Sustainable packaging strategy & goals formulated.
Sustainable agriculture
- 95% of sourced potatoes are fully traceable and with certified food safety accreditation.
- 53% of our sourced potatoes have an FSA silver label.
- 25% of our sourced potatoes have an FSA gold label.
Our ambitions
For the coming decade we have formulated clear sustainability goals on our three core topics. The base line year for these goals is 2018.
Climate change & emissions
- Reduce energy consumption per tonne product by 10% by 2030.
- Increase share of renewable energy to 30% by 2030.
- Reduce carbon emissions per tonne product by 50% by 2030.
Sustainable packaging
- Complete portfolio in recyclable packaging by 2021.
- 10% Less packaging material by 2022.
- Reduce CO2 footprint through packaging & transport optimisation.
- Stimulate the correct disposal behaviour in the supply chain.
Sustainable agriculture
- 100% of sourced potatoes are fully traceable and covered by food safety schemes.
- By 2025, 50% of sourced potatoes will achieve an FSA gold level or equivalent.