Bord Bia launches ‘Origin Green’ for sustainable food production
Bord Bia has announced plans for a comprehensive national programme to help Ireland become a world leader in sustainably produced food and drink.
According to the semi-State body, Origin Green is a voluntary programme whereby food manufacturers will sign up to a new ‘sustainability charter’ setting out clear targets in key areas such as emissions, energy, waste, water, biodiversity and corporate social responsibility.
Bord Bia says its Origin Green programme has set a target of 75 per cent of Irish food and drink exports to be sourced from its participants before the end of 2014, and 100 per cent by the end of 2016.
The scheme was launched recently at the Pathways for Growth Food and Drink Leadership Summit at UCD’s Michael Smurfit School of Business, which brought together Ireland’s leading food and drink industry representatives for the third time since 2010.
Speaking at the event, Minister for Food Simon Coveney said: “It is not enough to say that you have a clean, green product – you must be in a position to prove this through a credible means of measurement.
“I believe that the development of such sustainability programmes is an essential element in the growth strategy for the food sector and I encourage producers and companies alike to sign up.”
Bord Bia chairman Michael Carey added that “the development of a sustainability programme to build Ireland’s brand reputation around green credentials is one of the four key strategic priorities for Bord Bia over the next three years.
“In addition, we will be focusing on enhancing competitiveness, promoting exports and building a vibrant domestic market for the agri-food sector.”
Trade research being undertaken for Bord Bia is showing that sustainability is now more deeply engrained in retailers’ commercial strategies, said Bord Bia chief executive Aidan Cotter.
“Our research has highlighted the significant opportunities that exist if the Irish food and drink sector can demonstrate its commitment to delivering continuous improvement.”
Cotter added: “With Origin Green, we can effectively begin to add proof and assurance to our sustainability claims, and provide the evidence that our export customers are looking for. ”
As part of a pilot programme, Bord Bia is currently working with nine Irish food and drink companies including Kerry Group, Glanbia, Marine Harvest, Country Crest, Dawn Farm Foods, Flahavans, Irish Distillers, ABP and Errigal Seafoods.
