The green light
As sustainability continues to shape consumer choices, corporate responsibility and long-term sustainability strategies remain key drivers in decision-making within the retail and FMCG sectors, reports Donna Ahern
Print25 March 2025
As the climate crisis intensifies, many consumers are shifting their purchasing habits to support more sustainable brands and products.
A recent report by Accenture, titled The Sustainable Consumer: Bridging the Gap Between Aspiration and Action, found that 80% of consumers want to live more sustainably, and 75% are urging businesses to do more to help.
Research in Ireland further emphasises the demand for businesses to take action, with a particular focus on improving packaging recyclability.
In response to these eco-conscious consumers, many brands have made significant strides in enhancing their sustainability efforts. Notably, the grocery retail and FMCG sectors have embraced Re-turn, Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS). In February, Re-turn celebrated a major milestone: the return of one billion drink containers, a number that, if laid end-to-end, would circle the globe 4.7 times.
Return rates continue to surge
The one billionth container was returned at Lidl in Kilcarbery, Dublin, on Tuesday, February 4, 2025. Daily return rates continue to surge, from thousands of returns in February 2024 to over five million returns on several occasions this year, just one year after the scheme’s launch.
Ciaran Foley, CEO of Re-turn, commented: “It’s a fantastic achievement to have one billion drinks containers returned, and it’s great to see growing support as evidenced by the increasing daily returns.”
The scheme has also had a significant impact on communities. According to Foley, more than 2,200 community initiatives nationwide have benefited from fundraising through the DRS.
“DRS is already making a real difference—recycling rates are improving, litter is decreasing, and the environment is becoming cleaner. Community groups, schools, charities, and sports clubs are benefiting greatly from the refunds,” added Alan Dillon, Minister of State for Small Business, Retail, and the Circular Economy.
Supporting members
Furthermore, in its A Sustainable Future for Irish Retail – Retail Ireland Strategy 2023-2026, Retail Ireland outlined that environmental sustainability will be a key focus of the sector in the coming years.
The organisation aims to support its members as they continue transforming their operations by improving energy efficiency, using more recycled materials, reducing plastic use, and championing the circular economy.
Tackling environmental issues has become both a social and commercial priority.
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the crucial role retail plays in Irish society and local communities.
Retail Ireland intends to work with key stakeholders to promote the development of these communities, support town centre investments, and foster attractive, liveable, and sustainable urban environments.
Advocating for policies
One of the group’s key priorities is advocating for policies that support decarbonisation and investment in the circular economy.
Retail Ireland noted that it will work closely with its members to reduce the sector’s carbon footprint and will continue to push for government support to facilitate this transition.
To promote a sustainable environment and communities, the business organisation that represents Ireland’s retail sector will ‘champion and drive campaigns and initiatives that: Showcase the sector’s sustainability initiatives and commitments, including sharing best practice. Highlight the role of retail in supporting the social and commercial life of our villages, towns and cities.’
What recycling excellence means for Irish businesses in 2025
As the world marked World Recycling Day on 18 March, it is a timely reminder that sustainability is no longer a choice, but a responsibility, writes Gary Browne, packaging technologist, Repak
Businesses play a pivotal role in shaping a circular economy, and at Repak, we see first-hand the strides being made in packaging optimisation, waste reduction, and recycling excellence in Ireland.
More than just recycling: The full-circle approach
At Repak, we believe that excellence in recycling goes beyond waste management—it begins with how packaging is designed, produced, and reused. Through our Prevent and Save Programme, Repak members are empowered to optimise packaging, reduce waste at source, and ensure that materials are fully recyclable where possible. This initiative helps companies assess their packaging footprint and implement practical strategies to enhance sustainability while maintaining efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Similarly, the Plastic Pledge Programme encourages businesses to take active steps in reducing plastic use and transitioning towards more sustainable alternatives. By committing to minimising plastic use, correct waste segregation, reducing complexity in packaging formats and using recycled plastic content, companies contribute to a stronger circular economy, and resources are kept in continuous use for as long as possible.
These programmes provide businesses with the tools and knowledge they need to meet evolving environmental targets while reinforcing their commitment to sustainability.
What does recycling excellence Look Like in 2025?
With ambitious EU recycling targets approaching, businesses must rethink their approach to waste and sustainability.
Excellence in recycling is about meeting evolving regulatory requirements, innovation, efficiency, and a commitment to a circular economy. Companies that lead in 2025 will be those that embed sustainability into their packaging design, supply chain operations, and consumer engagement strategies.
Defining excellence in recycling for Irish businesses
- Full compliance with packaging regulations: Businesses must stay ahead of evolving regulations. This includes Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) compliance, single-use plastics bans, and proper waste segregation under EU rules. Clear labelling and transparency will ensure businesses align with the Green Claims Directive, ensuring consumers receive accurate recycling information. Companies that actively track and manage waste improve both compliance and sustainability efforts.
- Packaging optimisation & circular design: Reducing packaging waste starts with smarter design. Businesses can cut costs and material use by using lightweight materials, optimising pack dimensions, and eliminating unnecessary packaging space. Standardising packaging across products also improves supply chain efficiency and reduces waste.
- Engaging employees and consumers: Sustainability starts within a business. Educating employees on proper waste segregation and recycling fosters responsibility, while clear consumer labelling encourages better recycling habits.
- Increased use of recycled content: Businesses should prioritise recyclable materials and incorporate Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) content to support the circular economy. Where multi-material packaging is necessary, designs should allow for easy separation and recycling. Exploring reusable and refillable packaging models also helps reduce waste. Transparent labelling and consumer education drive better recycling participation and help meet EU recycling targets.
Repak’s members are supported in their sustainability journey through tailored programmes that help them optimise packaging and meet compliance requirements. The benefits of achieving recycling excellence extend beyond environmental impact:
- Cost savings: Optimised packaging reduces material and disposal costs.
- Regulatory compliance: Avoid future fines and legal complications by adhering to waste management laws.
- Brand reputation: Consumers are increasingly loyal to brands that prioritise sustainability.
- Circular economy contribution: Meeting Ireland’s ambitious 55% plastic recycling target by 2025 and 60% overall packaging recycling target strengthens the nation’s green credentials.
Leading the way to a greener future
Ireland’s business community has a unique opportunity to set a global benchmark for recycling excellence. By embracing circular packaging, optimising waste management, and maximising recycling, we can collectively move towards a truly sustainable future.
This World Recycling Day, Repak calls on all businesses to reflect on their sustainability journey and take bold steps towards recycling excellence. Through innovation, collaboration, and commitment, Irish businesses can lead the way in creating a cleaner, greener future.
For guidance, resources, and support in achieving best-in-class recycling practices, visit: www.repak.ie
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Revolutionary home-recyclable paper refill pack
JDE Peet’s Coffee continues to invest behind its revolutionary home-recyclable paper refill pack for the instant coffee category in Irish retail
Following a successful year of research, development, and testing in 2024, JDE Peet’s was the first major UK and Ireland coffee brand to switch from plastic to paper refills marking a breakthrough for sustainable packaging in the instant coffee category, with a pack that can now be recycled at home.
The cutting-edge packaging technology is over 85%* paper, meaning it can be put in home recycling bins and has been specially developed to keep the coffee fresh for 15 months, so consumers can enjoy the same high-quality taste experience they know and love. What’s more, it is 97% less packaging and 85% less CO2e than a standard 200g glass jar – reducing packaging waste. Moreover, reducing consumers trips to their local recycling depot.
The paper packaging replaced the existing plastic packs for Kenco and L’OR, and they launched in retailers in Ireland in January 2024.
For more information on Common Grounds visit: www.jdepeets.com/sustainability/
About JDE Peet’s:
JDE UK & Ireland is a subsidiary of JDE Peet’s, the world’s leading pure-play coffee and tea company, serving approximately 4,500 cups of coffee or tea per second. JDE Peet’s unleashes the possibilities of coffee and tea in more than 100 countries with a portfolio of over 50 brands including Kenco, Douwe Egberts, Tassimo and L’OR in the UK & Ireland. Read more about our journey towards a coffee and tea for every cup at www.jdepeets.com
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Aldi Ireland and Too Good To Go mark two years of partnership
(L-R) Rachel Nugent, national sustainability manager, Aldi Ireland and Machaela O’Leary, sales manager, Too Good To Go Ireland
Aldi Ireland and Too Good To Go are celebrating the second anniversary of their strong partnership, marking a key milestone in their joint efforts to combat food waste. Over the past two years, this collaboration has successfully saved over 250,000 Surprise Bags of food from going to waste, making a substantial impact on the environment and communities across Ireland.
Key insights on surprise bags saved through the partnership
Over the past two years, the highest number of bags were saved in December each year, highlighting the importance of the service during the crucial pre-Christmas period. Fridays have also consistently been the top day of the week for saving food, indicating strong community engagement at the end of the week.
The record for most Surprise Bags saved in a single month was set in the beginning of the partnership in December 2023. The highest number of bags saved in a single day was on 24 December 2024, further highlighting the service’s significant impact during the period just before Christmas.
Environmental impact
The partnership has also made a significant environmental impact, avoiding a total of 675,000kg of CO2e emissions, contributing to a more sustainable future. For context, the average person in Ireland emits 78kg of CO2e per year.
In terms of land use, the partnership has avoided 700,000 m² annually. This is equivalent to the area of 56,000 single parking lots in Europe, 2,682 tennis courts, or 98 football fields.
Additionally, the partnership has avoided 202,500,000 litres of water, which is equivalent to 1,257,764 filled bathtubs or 81 Olympic-sized swimming pools. As fellow SDG Champions for the 2024-25 programme, ALDI and Too Good To Go are working together to tackle food waste nationwide while also minimising its impact on the environment. ALDI has committed to reducing its food waste by 50% by 2030 through reporting, waste reduction, food redistribution and exploring value chains, resulting in less consumable food being sent to anaerobic digestion. In 2018, ALDI was among the first supermarkets to join the Retail Action Group’s Food Waste Charter, committing to a long-term approach to tackling food waste, recommitting to this in 2023.
Commenting on this milestone, Rachel Nugent, national sustainability manager, Aldi Ireland, said: “We are thrilled to celebrate this milestone with Too Good To Go. Saving over 250,000 Surprise Bags in the past two years is a testament to our commitment to reducing food waste and supporting our communities – this is just the beginning of the work we are determined to do. This achievement emphasises the dedication of our team and the incredible support from our customers, who have embraced this initiative wholeheartedly. We look forward to continuing this journey and making even greater strides in the fight against food waste through this partnership.”
Machaela O’Leary, sales manager, Too Good To Go Ireland, added: ”At Too Good To Go, our mission is to ensure that good food is enjoyed, not wasted and working with Aldi Ireland has been incredibly rewarding. Together, we’ve made a meaningful impact in saving food from going to waste, while offering customers great meals at an affordable price. The success of this partnership demonstrates what we can achieve when businesses and communities come together for a common cause. It’s a win-win for everyone involved, and we’re excited to keep evolving our partnership with Aldi.”
Aldi’s Too Good To Go Surprise Bags cost just €3.99 each and contain at least €12 worth of food approaching its sell–by or use-by date. They can be saved at all Aldi’s 163 stores across Ireland.
To celebrate the milestone of 250,000 Surprise Bags being saved, Aldi and Too Good To Go are giving you the chance to win a €2,500 Aldi gift card. To enter, simply purchase any Aldi Surprise Bag on the Too Good To Go app between until 23 March and register your contact details and order number at https://contest.tgtg.to/ALDI
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Sustainability at the heart of Brady Family & Green Farm
At a time when consumers are more conscious than ever about the environmental and social impact of the food they buy, brands have a responsibility to step up. For Brady Family and Green Farm, sustainability isn’t a ‘nice to have’—it’s a fundamental part of how it do business every single day.
Its purpose is simple: to bring better quality food to everyone, every day. But delivering on that promise means thinking beyond just the products Brady Family and Green Farm make. It means looking at how it sources its ingredients, how we make our food, and how the company can support better choices for its customers — all while protecting the planet and looking after its people.
Brady Family and Green Farm built its sustainability strategy around three pillars: Better Sourced, Better Made, and Better For You. Each of these pillars guides our decision-making, helping us create products that are not only high quality and full of flavour, but that also have a positive impact along the way.
- Better sourced
The company will continue to work with its suppliers to ensure the highest levels of quality and animal welfare, environmental & social standards, and locally sourced produce.
- Better made
It will continue to improve the way it operates, while maintaining its traditional style and product quality, by reducing the company’s environmental impacts, implementing lean techniques, and providing a safe working environment.
- Better for you
Building a more sustainable food system, by producing healthier and more sustainable food for its consumers.
Proud to be a B Corp.
Brady Family and Green Farm are B Corp Certified since February 2023. B Corp calls for a truly integrated way of thinking, where sustainability strategy is fully embedded into business strategy. B Corp focuses on the five key areas of Governance, Workers, Community, Environment and Customers.
It has long believed that the business community has a huge role to play when it comes to driving social and environmental change. It knows that business success and doing the right thing are linked. The company’s goal is to bring better quality food to everyone every day while doing right by all of its stakeholders.
Playing the long game
If Brady Family and Green Farm do the right thing, even if sometimes it costs the company in the short term, it pays off over time. It ‘fundamentally believes’ that – no matter how challenging the future looks. By staying true to its values and keeping sustainability at the heart of its brands, it is not just building a stronger company — it is helping to build a better future for everyone. The company’s outlook is not just the next five years, it is where it will be in 2040. Living by this view is what makes Brady Family and Green Farm truly sustainable.
As it continues to evolve and improve, it invites its partners, customers and community to join it in shaping a more sustainable future.
Together, we can make better food for everyone, every day — while protecting the planet we all share.
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Sustainability continues to be a driving factor for BWG Foods
BWG Foods, one of Ireland’s leading retail and wholesale companies, is passionately committed to sustainable practices, which is demonstrated through the incorporation of innovative initiatives in every facet of our operations as part of a robust ESG Programme entitled ‘Responsible Together’. Through this ambitious Programme, BWG recognises that it has a collective accountability to protect our environment through its actions, practices and relationships, and this is a responsibility BWG Foods takes very seriously.
Consequently, BWG Foods is constantly challenging itself and its nationwide network of more than 1,000 independent retailers and entrepreneurs operating under the SPAR, EUROSPAR, MACE, LONDIS and XL brands. Together the group is committed to exploring the opportunities presented by new concepts, enhanced technology and innovative, as well as sustainable, solutions to better serve its retailers and the communities in which they are embedded.
The next evolutionary step in BWG’s sustainability journey is focusing on the reduction of the environmental footprint across all development projects, aligning with its commitment to meaningful environmental actions. As part of BWG’s sustainability endeavours, the leading retail and wholesale company has long been a leader in the industry when it comes to operating one of the most sustainable delivery fleets in Ireland and its updated strategy will cement its existing achievements and propel BWG Foods longer-term goals.
Retail Development team
It continues to support retailers and encourage the incorporation of energy saving upgrades through its Retail Development team. This is the backdrop to BWG’s innovative Next Generation Refrigerated (NGR) display case development, which has been installed in a large number of stores and supermarkets throughout Ireland.
BWG Foods conducts a significant number of retail fitouts annually, which incorporates upgrading existing stores and supermarkets and its equipment and emphasises the importance of environmental responsibility and resource usage during these refits. In close collaboration with suppliers, when planning for these refits, a focus is always placed on reducing the environmental impact in all elements. The fluctuating energy costs enveloping the Irish landscape is, naturally, of enormous concern to Irish retailers. One of the main expenses to all retail stores and supermarkets are refrigeration costs as they comprise, on average, 70% of their energy consumption.
In response to these costs, BWG’s Retail Development team focussed on a revolutionary concept on reducing energy consumption in refrigeration, the ‘Next Generation Refrigeration’ (NGR) display case.
The NGR cabinet, developed through months of collaboration and testing and in conjunction with Anglo Irish refrigeration and Wirth Research, an aero dynamics and thermal dynamics specialist firm with a background in Formula 1 racing, utilises airflow movements to enhance energy efficiency.
Intelligent controllers and a monitoring system result in significant improvements in energy consumption and the overall reduction in a standard store’s energy bills is 25%, which represents a significant reduction in their bills, their use of unnecessary electricity and represents a significant reduction in their carbon footprint.
This cutting-edge technology has been installed in more than 100 BWG stores across Ireland and was awarded the NACS European Convenience Retail Sustainability Award in June 2024 for its pioneering advancement.
Energy reduction and solar
BWG is also committed to further sustainability initiatives and practices and has partnered with Flogas Energy since 2023, with Flogas supplying 100% renewable energy. All electricity supplied to BWG sites under the current electricity supply agreement with Flogas is sourced from renewable energy and verified through the CRU’s latest fuel mix disclosure.
This ensures that BWG’s energy supply is fully backed by certified renewable sources, supporting its commitment to sustainability and a lower carbon footprint.
Further actions
In addition to these actions, we have a diverse range of initiatives that feed into the wider ESG strategy consisting of five key pillars: Climate and Environment, People, Community, Health and Sourcing.
These include continuing to transition of its fleet to renewable transport, further donation of surplus product to FoodCloud and Too Good To Go as well as community-based initiatives as the group, and its nationwide network of community retailers, continue to integrate these principles into every aspect of its operation, ensuring a sustainable approach in all that it does.
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Britvic’s staff show ongoing commitment to biodiversity and sustainability
Ballygowan’s Newcastle West facility staff recently took part in an orchard planting event to mark Britvic’s ongoing commitment to biodiversity and sustainability.
The event follows the recent launch of Ballygowan Hint of Fruit Apple flavour, which is now available in selected retailers across Ireland and adds to the Ballygowan Hint of Fruit family which already has flavours including Strawberry, Summer Fruits, and Mango and Passion Fruit.
The planting of 16 pollinator-friendly native apple trees is a welcome addition to existing biodiversity and sustainability initiatives at the Newcastle West facility, including the use of 100% renewable electricity sourced from a wind farm in Tipperary.
The Newcastle West site is also an official Area of Conservation for the native black honeybee following the installation of five colony beehives last May to mark World Bee Day.
Name: Sian Young
Role: Sustainable business and corporate affairs director
Company: Britvic Ireland
1/ Can you tell me about your role in the company?
I am the sustainable business and corporate affairs director for Britvic Ireland, the Republic of Irelands largest soft drinks manufacturer. My role is to drive sustainable business practises both internally and externally. I am responsible for tracking our environmental impact and making sure we’re on track to deliver ambitious reduction targets. I also work with our customers to support their own sustainability journey as well as working with the wider business community to make sure we’re collaborating to create a greener future.
2/ What specific actions has your company taken to reduce its carbon footprint, and how do you measure and track your progress toward achieving your sustainability goals?
Since 2017 we have reduced our direct carbon emissions in Ireland by over 85%. This has been done through a combination of greater manufacturing efficiency to reduce our energy usage and a move to more sustainable fuel alternatives such as renewable electricity and HVO. We even have a Corporate Power Purchase Agreement in place which means we source most of our renewable electricity locally, from a windfarm in Tipperary. We track key metrics such as carbon, water and packaging on a monthly basis and review performance against our stated roadmaps which we have outlined in our annual Origin Green report.
3/ Can you provide details on how your supply chain management practices ensure environmental responsibility, and what steps are being taken to promote sustainability throughout your supplier network?
Our supply chain team are committed to improving our environmental footprint. There is often a win-win effect with our ongoing drive for efficiency with the goal of eliminating all forms of waste and we always include an assessment of environmental impact as part of investment decisions. We also work closely with our suppliers around sustainability who are all required to sign up to responsible sourcing commitments. We provide supports for suppliers to help them drive sustainability and welcome collaboration opportunities. Recently we have been working with our logistics partners DFDS to explore alternative fuels, and we have switched 30% of our road transport to HVO.
4/ How does your company plan to integrate circular economy principles into its operations in the coming years, and what initiatives are in place to minimise waste and extend product lifecycles?
The circular economy is a critical concern for the soft drinks industry, and we were strong advocates of the recently introduced DRS which is helping us to secure the necessary high-quality materials needed to increase the percentage of rPET in our bottles. We already lead the way in concentrated solutions such as MiWadi Minis which massively reduce the amount of packaging required per drink. Looking to the future we see packaging-free solutions as an important opportunity with innovations such as our Aqua Libra Flavour Tap showing that you don’t have to compromise on quality when moving to more sustainable alternatives to traditional packaged drinks.
5/ What are your short-term and long-term goals for achieving net-zero emissions, and what strategies or innovations are you exploring to make these goals a reality while maintaining business growth?
As part of Carlsberg Group, we are committed to achieving Net-Zero emissions by 2040 and we are making great progress against this goal. Overall, we have reduced direct emissions by 85% since 2017 and we already have achieved a 99% reduction in manufacturing emissions for our Ballygowan site in Newcastlewest. We are increasingly focussed on our Scope 3 emissions, working with suppliers to find scalable solutions. Circular, Concentrated and Packaging-free solutions are also at the heart of our long-term plans as reducing waste means reducing emissions. As the creators of iconic Irish brands like Club Orange, MiWadi and TK we are experts in great flavour and Irelands growing population of consumers will always need delicious and healthy drinks – we’re just finding the best way to supply them!
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Butlers holistic approach to sustainability
Sustainability lies at the heart of Butlers Chocolates, an Irish family-owned company, committed to crafting delicious premium chocolates and confectionery while prioritising environmental responsibility.
As a verified member of Origin Green, Butlers Chocolates embeds sustainable practices across all areas of the business. One of Butlers Chocolates’ most significant achievements is its commitment to sustainable and local sourcing practices, using only sustainably sourced cocoa, fairtrade coffee and zero palm oil. Butlers Chocolate Café takeaway cups are 100% recyclable and sourced in Ireland and the company actively supports the Conscious Cup campaign, encouraging and incentivising the use of reusable cups.
Butlers strives to reduce single-use plastics, ensuring packaging is both practical and environmentally responsible. This commitment extends to packaging innovations, with the company continuously seeking sustainable alternatives to reduce its ecological footprint. Recent achievements include the introduction of a fully recyclable paper wrap for its beloved twist-wrapped truffles, a change that will eliminate approximately 15 tonnes of waste annually. At the factory, waste is managed in a way that minimises environmental impact. Food waste is composted, with zero-waste-to-landfill.
Butlers Chocolates’ sustainability efforts incorporate a range of environmentally conscious initiatives which include;
- Solar power: The Butlers Chocolates factory is home to over 7,000 sq. meters of solar panels, providing more than 20% of the facility’s annual energy needs—equivalent to the size of the Aviva Stadium pitch.
- Sustainable sourcing: Cocoa is sustainably sourced, and coffee served in Butlers Chocolate Cafés is Fairtrade certified.
- Electric vehicle adoption: The company is transitioning its vehicle fleet to electric, reducing its carbon footprint.
- Sustainable packaging: The ribbons on Butlers Easter Eggs are made from recycled plastic bottles, and packaging has transitioned from recyclable plastic to paper alternatives.
- Zero palm oil: Butlers Chocolates has eliminated palm oil from all its products
With sustainability as a core value, Butlers Chocolates continues to innovate and lead in responsible chocolate and confectionery production.
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One Planet One Health vision
Name: Hannah Cornick, head of sustainability and Social Innovation for the UK and Ireland
Role: Head of sustainability and social innovation for the UK and Ireland, Danone
Company: Danone
1/ Can you tell me about your role in the company?
Danone is a health-focused food and beverage company with a mission to bring health, through food, to as many people as possible. Our One Planet One Health vision reflects our belief that the health of people and the planet are interconnected, and we aim to reduce the environmental impact of our products whilst inspiring healthy, sustainable eating habits.
As head of sustainability and Social Innovation, I am responsible for embedding the Danone Impact Journey1 (a framework that helps us target, measure and act on corporate purpose) into day-to-day business and managing the delivery of Danone’s sustainability and community impact programmes.
I am passionate about supporting business growth with purpose and helping employees to understand the critical link between business success and our sustainability values.
2/ What specific actions has your company taken to reduce its carbon footprint, and how do you measure and track your progress toward achieving your sustainability goals?
Reducing emissions is a top priority for Danone. Our Climate Transition Plan2 to achieve our near-term science-based targets and become net zero by 2050, looks across all aspects of our operations and value chain. We work closely with our dairy suppliers to reduce emissions on farms, and at our factories in Ireland, we monitor our carbon footprint, invest in energy efficiency programmes, and implement state-of-the art technologies to improve our sustainability performance. Our Wexford plant installed a renewable biomass boiler, which contributed to an 80% reduction in operating emissions since 2011. In 2023, we established a new warehouse and logistics network in Ireland to facilitate direct delivery from our factories in Europe, saving over 500T CO2e annually.
Through our Impact Report, we publish our progress each year, and outline areas where we intend to make improvements – we published our inaugural UK & Ireland Impact Report3 in 2024.
3/ Can you provide details on how your supply chain management practices ensure environmental responsibility, and what steps are being taken to promote sustainability throughout your supplier network?
We recognise the importance of our environmental and sustainability commitments extending across our entire supply chain.
In 2024 we launched our new Sustainable Sourcing Policy outlining our expectations of suppliers to operate responsibly and help deliver our Impact Journey priorities. We’re rolling this out and embedding specific measures for different parts of our supply chain. For example, we have been embedding 30% carbon reduction targets by 2030 into all dairy ingredient supplier contracts globally. We believe in working with our suppliers to achieve these goals and have introduced an annual Partner Day to explore how we can better collaborate.
4/ How does your company plan to integrate circular economy principles into its operations in the coming years, and what initiatives are in place to minimise waste and extend product lifecycles?
We participate in Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), which incentivises recycling aluminium cans and plastic bottles, and helps develop a circular economy. We are also signatories of the Repak Plastics Pledge and actively encourage improvements to recycling infrastructure across Ireland. To further integrate circular economy principles, we are increasing our use of recycled content across our packaging, helping to reduce virgin plastic use and carbon emissions. We aim to cut our food waste by 50% by 2030. We have been working with FoodCloud since 2020 and supported the redistribution of 228 tonnes of surplus food, the equivalent of over 500,000 meals.
5/ What are your short-term and long-term goals for achieving net-zero emissions, and what strategies or innovations are you exploring to make these goals a reality while maintaining business growth?
As one of the first and largest B Corps in Ireland, we are deeply committed to sustainable business growth and have clear short-term and long-term climate goals. By 2030, we will reduce Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 46.3%, cut Scope 3 non-FLAG emissions by 42%, lower Scope 3 FLAG (agriculture-related) emissions by 30.3%4 and by 2050, we aim to achieve net-zero emissions across our entire value chain.
To reach these targets, we are progressing our transition to renewable energy and have secured planning permission to construct a solar installation adjacent to our Macroom factory.
We continue to innovate with lower-carbon products, such as growing our range of plant-based dairy alternatives.
We are also keen to bring our expertise in regenerative agriculture to Ireland and are engaged with stakeholders, as well as our suppliers, to support farmers in meeting their climate targets.
1/ https://www.danone.com/sustainability/our-approach/danone-impact-journey.html
2/ https://www.danone.com/content/dam/corp/global/danonecom/about-us-impact/policies-and-commitments/en/danone-climate-transition-plan-2023.pdf
4/ https://www.danone.com/sustainability/nature/driving-climate-action.html
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A greener future
As sustainability continues to shape consumer choices, now is the time to highlight your business commitment to a greener future, writes Adam Emerson, business development manager, Ireland, Gander
Gander is a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform that helps retailers maximise the visibility of close-to-expiry food across multiple digital channels. By connecting with a retailer’s EPOS and/or inventory system, Gander automatically surfaces reduced-to-clear products in real-time, ensuring they reach the widest possible audience before becoming waste.
Retailers facing increasing cost pressures need practical solutions that not only protect their margins but also enhance customer engagement and reduce waste. Gander provides a proven way to achieve all three.
We help retailers reduce financial losses by addressing the issue of unsold perishable goods. We improve profitability by ensuring that retailers can better manage their stock and sell items that might otherwise go to waste, and we support environmental sustainability by reducing food waste, which benefits retailers and the planet.
How Gander has grown over recent years
Since launching in 2019, Gander has expanded its partnerships, covering over 500 stores and has helped reduce food waste by an average of 26% for retailers, saving over 40 million food items from waste.
Beyond the island of Ireland, Gander is also live in the UK, Channel Islands, Australia and Brazil, working with local retailers to bring the same multi-channel, real-time waste reduction solution to new markets.
Consumer & retailer benefits
We know Irish consumers feel that sustainability is important today and they are taking some action in their lives to live more sustainability. In addition, consumers like to save money while making sustainable purchasing choices.
We are committed to reducing food waste and to helping consumers to manage their shopping budget. Retailers utilising Gander have reported significant financial benefits. For retailers serious about tackling cost pressures this year, adopting Gander is a smart move – not just for reducing/minimising waste-related losses, increasing footfall and selling more reduced-to-clear stock but for strengthening their bottom line and enhancing customer loyalty.
Some retailers are saving up to €950 per week and reducing their annual waste costs by as much as €24,000 per store. By ensuring yellow-stickered items sell 40% faster and our existing retail partners are achieving an 88% sell-through rate on reduced food, recovering value from perishable stock that might otherwise be lost.
Beyond cost savings, Gander also drives new customer acquisition, with approximately 50% of shoppers purchasing reduced items being new to the store. Additionally, at least 70% of Gander users buy full-priced items alongside reduced items, further increasing basket spend.
How Gander works
Gander offers retailers multiple ways to promote reduced-to-clear food, ensuring greater visibility and sales before expiry.
By utilising our Facebook integration and AI technology we can automatically schedule posts to go out daily to promote the reduced to clear items.
Gander also expands reach through Olio Deals, connecting with its 4.5 million sustainability-focused audience, and integrates with Google to support online grocery sales and enhance local search visibility.
Retailer loyalty apps and websites also ensure that loyal customers see discounted products first. By leveraging these sales and marketing channels, Gander helps retailers reduce food waste while generating additional revenue.
Gander drives overall store sales and speeds sales of reduced to clear products
Gander isn’t just a tool for bargain hunters – 70% of users also buy full-priced items, driving overall store sales. Additionally, reduced-to-clear products sell 40% faster with Gander, ensuring they are consumed rather than wasted.
This impact was further acknowledged in 2023, when Gander was nominated for the prestigious Earthshot Prize, highlighting our scalable, real-world impact in the fight against food waste. Gander was also nominated in 2024 and this year in Brazil by BVRio.
Gander is a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform that assists retailers in reducing food waste by promoting discounted, near-expiry products to consumers in real time. The platform connects directly with retailers’ point-of-sale and inventory systems, automatically displaying reduced-to-clear items to shoppers through various channels.
We are currently working with some retailers across SPAR EUROSPAR & Maxol NI
For more information, visit: www.gander.co
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Lidl launches €100k Green Fund to support community sustainability projects
Applications to Lidl’s Green Fund are open to primary and secondary schools, charities and community groups across Ireland until 24 March 2025
Ireland’s ‘most sustainable’ supermarket retailer Lidl recently launched a new Green Fund to award communities across the country with €100k in funding in support of local projects that aim to tackle key environmental challenges across climate and biodiversity, circular economy and sustainable living, for the benefit of towns and villages the length and breadth of the country.
Charities, primary and secondary schools and community groups from every county can now apply for Lidl’s new Green Fund which offers a top award of €25k to a lead project or initiative, with a further €75k allocated to multiple smaller projects regionally.
Community projects
Applications are being sought for community projects across four key areas;
- Climate: Initiatives that support communities to develop climate action plans that minimise the impacts of climate change e.g. installation of solar panels, LED lighting, carbon literacy training.
- Biodiversity: Initiatives that will develop environmental projects to support all ecosystems within our local communities e.g. community garden, nature trails, native and pollinator friendly planting, pocket forest, marine environment and conservation projects
- Reducing waste: identifying solutions to reduce waste and support a circular economy e.g. waste programmes, repair cafes, upcycling, workshops and seminars.
- Health and wellbeing: educating local communities to promote healthy diets and make healthier food choices e.g. community cooking programme, nutrition workshops
“It’s great to see major retailers like Lidl really lead the way in embedding sustainable practices not only within their business but also in the communities which they serve,” said Fionnuala Jay, broadcaster and podcaster.
Jay noted that this is such a great opportunity for smaller community groups, charities or schools to get the financial boost they need to make their vision a reality and really transform their local area.
“Whether that’s a community group in Lahinch launching a local repair shop to give a new lease of life to old items, or a charity in Skibbereen hosting nutrition workshops for improved health or a school in Carrickmacross creating new pollinator friendly garden, Lidl’s Green Fund is there to support community goals, big or small. Having dedicated my career to working in this space, I’m calling on every eligible group to apply now and be in with a chance to make a real change in their community,” said Jay.
Lidl’s Green Fund
Lidl’s Green Fund, developed in partnership with Business in the Community Ireland, is part of the retailer’s overarching sustainability strategy and commitment to creating A Better Tomorrow, contributing positively to the communities in which they operate and being good stewards of the environment.
“As Ireland’s most sustainable retailer, we know we have a responsibility to educate and support our customers and the communities in which we operate to lead more sustainable lives,” said Elaine O’Connor, head of sustainability, Lidl Ireland and Northern Ireland.
With a network of more than 180 stores in Ireland, Lidl wants to use its reach into local communities as a real force for good and the launch of the new Lidl Green Fund is the latest initiative designed to move it forward in the journey towards A Better Tomorrow.
Sustainability leaders
“With 2024 being the hottest year on record and global warming exceeding 1.5 degrees, concerted community action is critical,” said Tomás Sercovich, CEO, Business in the Community Ireland (BITCI).
As leaders in sustainability and social inclusion, BITCI worked with Lidl to design and develop the fund to ensure its accessibility by communities right across Ireland and, importantly, its impact.
Sercovich noted that with a total fund of €100,000 available and a share of €50,000 allocated to multiple project requests, this funding will be transformative for many groups who want to further embed sustainable action in their local area.
“I would encourage everyone to apply for a share of the fund and I look forward to helping shortlist applications and award winners across Ireland later this summer,” said Sercovich.
Applications
Applications to Lidl’s Green Fund are open to primary and secondary schools, charities and community groups across Ireland until 24 March 2025
For more information, or to apply, visit www.greenfund.abettertomorrow-lidl.ie
Lidl Ireland employs more than 6,000 people across 181 stores, three regional distribution centres and Head Office in the Republic of Ireland and currently holds 13.7% market share according to Kantar.
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Tesco’s Planet Plan
Name: Andrew McGregor
Role: Head of Sustainability
Company: Tesco Ireland
1/ Can you tell me about your role in the company?
As Head of Sustainability, my role is to ensure Tesco Ireland is delivering for customers, communities, and the planet through the six pillars of our Planet Plan. All initiatives in our Planet Plan ladder up to our overall aim to reach net zero emissions in our Group operations by 2035, and net zero across our full value chain, aligned to a 1.5C trajectory, by 2050.
2/ What specific actions has your company taken to reduce its carbon footprint, and how do you measure and track your progress toward achieving your sustainability goals?
Through targeted initiatives in transport, property and renewable energy, Tesco Group achieved a 61% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions between 2015/16 and 2023/24. We track emissions from our own operations with internal quarterly reporting to ensure we are on track with our targets.
We source 100% renewable energy to power our network of stores, offices and distribution centres. We also produce energy via our wind turbine at our Donabate Distribution Centre, and have installed onsite solar on the roofs of four stores, with many more to come!
Across our estate we have rolled out fridge doors in all stores, are replacing the refrigeration and HVAC systems, and rolling out heat pumps.
We are also investing in our distribution network, and last year introduced 50 biomethane-fuelled trucks to replace diesel trucks, with a tailpipe emissions reduction of up to 90%. And we now have our first store in Dun Laoghaire fully serviced by electric vans, fulfilling deliveries to customers in the area.
3/ Can you provide details on how your supply chain management practices ensure environmental responsibility, and what steps are being taken to promote sustainability throughout your supplier network?
We collaborate closely with our suppliers to minimize the environmental impact of the products we sell. Our suppliers report annually on their climate commitments and progress, and we were the first retailer in Ireland to offer our suppliers sustainability-linked supply chain finance to incentivise setting science-based emission reduction targets. We encourage and support our suppliers to measure, report and reduce their food waste as part of our work to halve food waste in our supply chain by 2030. We also support a number of certification schemes to ensure that certain products are produced with a focus on environmental stewardship, resource efficiency, and social responsibility.
4/ How does your company plan to integrate circular economy principles into its operations in the coming years, and what initiatives are in place to minimise waste and extend product lifecycles?
Pillar five of Tesco’s Planet Plan is to eliminate waste, specifically food and packaging waste. We strive to divert food surplus up the waste hierarchy to ensure the maximum inherent value of the food is upheld, and no food is sent to landfill. Food approaching the end of its shelf life is first reduced to clear for customers, and then donated to our charitable partners to redistribute to those who need it most. If surplus remains, it is donated to our colleagues via Colleague Shop, and as a final option, it is sent for anaerobic digestion. Since 2013, in partnership with FoodCloud and food sharing app Olio, we have redistributed the equivalent of over 20 million meals to over 350 community organisations nationwide.
We follow the “4Rs” strategy for packaging and packaging waste, ensuring that we always Remove packaging where we can, Reduce it where we can’t, Reuse more and Recycle what’s left. Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) in Ireland supports 178 stores with 322 reverse vending machines (RVMs), with close to 100 million empty containers taken back to date.
5/ What are your short-term and long-term goals for achieving net-zero emissions, and what strategies or innovations are you exploring to make these goals a reality while maintaining business growth?
We aim to be carbon neutral in our Group operations by 2035 and net zero across our full value chain, aligned to a 1.5C trajectory, by 2050. Our short-term targets include:
- 85% emissions reduction across scopes 1 & 2 by 2030.
- 55% emission reduction target for our scope 3 non-FLAG emissions by 2032.
- 39% emission reduction target for our Scope 3 Forest, Land & Agriculture (FLAG) emissions by 2032.
To keep track of progress towards our targets, we have developed decarbonisation pathways for emissions hotspots, and established group governance to monitor decarbonisation initiatives.
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Progress in sustainability ambitions
Caroline Reid, global co-lead of sustainability, Oatly talks about the brands sustainability goals.
What specific actions has your company taken to reduce its carbon footprint, and how do you measure and track your progress toward achieving your sustainability goals?
At Oatly, we constantly track and measure progress against our sustainability ambitions and publish annually our sustainability report which transparently communicates what we are doing, the opportunities, challenges and the progress we’ve made. When measuring kg of CO2 per litre of oat drink, our corporate climate footprint decreased by approximately 17 percent between 2022 and 2023. This was a direct result of transportation and sourcing decisions as well as expanding our renewable electricity commitments to include all production partners in the US, Europe and Singapore.
Can you provide details on how your supply chain management practices ensure environmental responsibility, and what steps are being taken to promote sustainability throughout your supplier network?
Oatly sets out clear environmental and social sustainability expectations for our suppliers that include three major components. Firstly, a Supplier Code of Conduct that reflects our company values and expectations on key issues such as human rights, working conditions, environmental protection and anti-corruption. Secondly, Supplier Sustainability Requirements which outline our sustainable sourcing expectations and ingredient standards, including sustainability certifications, renewable energy, sustainable ground transportation and reporting requirements. And finally, we continue to introduce more suppliers into our Ecovadis network to provide greater insights into focus areas of environment, ethics, labour & human rights and sustainable procurement. Over the next year, we aim to both expand the Ecovadis programme to more suppliers and further improve the sustainability performance of our supply chain.
How does your company plan to integrate circular economy principles into its operations in the coming years, and what initiatives are in place to minimise waste and extend product lifecycles?
The science is clear: if we want to combat climate change, it is time for humans to shift away from resource-intensive animal-based diets. Studies show that a shift to more plant-based diets could help reduce GHG emissions. We work every day to provide innovative and delicious oat-based products, making it easier for people to choose these over animal-based ones.
In 2024 we are very proud to say that our products qualified as Climate Solution Products in the milk category. Oatly Barista Edition across our key markets has a consistently lower or comparable impact than average cow’s milk in nearly all environmental impacts assessed* (7 out of 9.) As a company, we look to work with farmers, suppliers, scientists and other partners to develop our products in a way that we believe is beneficial, to both people and the planet.
*Environmental impacts: Climate change, fine particulate matter formation, terrestrial acidification, freshwater eutrophication, marine eutrophication, water consumption, and land use. Derived from: Blonk Consultants (2022), LCA of Oatly Barista Edition and comparison with cow’s milk. Stages include raw material to point of sale and packaging waste management for average L produced and sold in the US, Sweden and the Netherlands and sold in Germany, Finland and the UK.
What are your short-term and long-term goals for achieving net-zero emissions, and what strategies or innovations are you exploring to make these goals a reality while maintaining business growth?
We want to be a positive driving force in changing what is an outdated food system. Traditional food production is one of the biggest drivers of environmental impact; studies indicate that agriculture uses about half of all habitable land on Earth, requires large amounts of resources such as water, is a significant driver of global greenhouse gases (GHGs) and can harm biodiversity. Our business and sustainability go hand in hand, as we grow and people choose to replace more of their dairy intake with Oatly. Since 2019 to 2023 our products have contributed 847,225 cumulative tonnes of CO2e of avoided GHG emissions.
Emerald Park teams up with Flogas as official sustainable energy partner
Emerald Park, Ireland’s family-operated theme park and zoo has announced Flogas as its official sustainable energy partner as part of a five-year agreement.
This partnership will see Flogas providing exclusive energy services to Emerald Park, reinforcing both organisations’ commitment to a greener future.
As part of this collaboration, Flogas will supply Emerald Park with energy, including renewable sources such as solar and electric vehicle car charging.
Sustainability goals
This initiative aligns with Emerald Park’s sustainability goals and ensures that the park operates with reduced environmental impact while continuing to offer world-class attractions and experiences to guests.
A significant highlight of this partnership is the installation of 290 solar panels at Emerald Park, which will generate enough clean energy for the theme park and zoo to run solely on solar energy for an entire month.
Furthermore, 20 EV (electric vehicle) charging units will be introduced at the Emerald Park car park, making it easier for guests to embrace eco-friendly travel options.
Powered by Flogas
The Flogas partnership will see the exhilarating rides and attractions at Emerald Park powered by Flogas, ensuring a thrilling yet sustainable experience for guests.
This includes the park’s most iconic rides, such as Ireland’s first rollercoaster, The Cu Chulainn Coaster and Europe’s longest intertwining family and thrill coasters, Na Fianna Force and The Quest.
Additionally, Flogas will supply energy to the Emerald Park Zoo, home to over 250 diverse animals, further enhancing the park’s commitment to sustainability and conservation.
Renewable energy
In 2025, Emerald Park will also be able to power several key facilities exclusively through renewable energy.
This includes the Emerald Park 5D cinema, toilet facilities, food outlets such as The Grill and Boost Coffee Dock, along with attractions such as the Power Surge and the Air Race, showcasing the park’s continued investment in renewable energy solutions.
This partnership marks just the beginning of a longer sustainability journey for Emerald Park and Flogas.
Both organisations will work together to explore further sustainable energy solutions, including Corporate Power Purchase Agreements (CPPAs) to align electricity usage with wind or solar projects and battery storage initiatives to enhance energy efficiency.
Beyond energy provision, the partnership will also see a strong Flogas presence throughout the theme park and zoo located in Ashbourne, Co. Meath.
As part of this partnership, renewing Flogas residential customers will receive two free Emerald Park All Access tickets worth €104, offering even more value while supporting sustainable energy solutions.
A step forward
“This partnership is a huge step forward in our sustainability journey and demonstrates our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint,” said Charles Coyle, managing director, Emerald Park.
Coyle noted that with Flogas powering Emerald Park with renewable energy sources and the introduction of solar panels and EV charging units, Emerald Park is taking meaningful action to protect the environment while delivering unforgettable experiences for its guests.
“At Flogas, we are committed to helping businesses transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions, and this partnership showcases what can be achieved when companies work together towards a greener future,” said John Rooney, managing director of Flogas Ireland.
This partnership marks a new chapter for Emerald Park as it continues its journey towards sustainability, ensuring a greener, more responsible future for generations to come.
Read more: Strides in sustainability
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