FDF's Environmental Ambition: Progress Report 2018
The food and drink manufacturing industry has an
essential interest in protecting and enhancing the natural
environment because of its reliance on a continuous,
adequate supply of raw materials.
2018 began with the publication of the 25 Year Environment Plan which reinforced
the need for
action on clean air and water, enriched biodiversity, efficient resource use,
and a fundamental change
in how we operate. Other key moments were the announcement of the first
Environment Bill in 20
years, the launch of consultations on key policy considerations such as the
draft Clean Air Strategy
and the proposed plastic tax, and the publication of the Resource and Waste
Strategy. Also, the
unprecedented level of public interest in plastics and packaging could not be
ignored, and saw the
industry operating in a period of increased scrutiny. As a result,
environmental
issues have been put
at centre stage more than ever.
The Food and Drink Federation (FDF) believes the industry plays a positive role
in building more
resilient and sustainable value chains into the future. Transformational change
cannot be driven by
any single actor and FDF members' unique position in the supply chain provides
an opportunity to
tackle these issues in a holistic manner. For example, innovative packaging
solutions can keep food
fresher for
longer, save money and reduce waste, of both packaging and food.
Our members continue to show industry-leading dedication to achieving
sustainability goals. FDF
members have once again reported reductions in carbon dioxide emissions, down
53% since 1990,
and reduced water consumption, down 39% since 2008. FDF has promoted several
initiatives,
including the food waste campaigns Your Business is Food and the Food Waste Reduction Roadmap, and is a founding signatory of the UK Plastics
Pact along with many of our members. We have continued to update members, and
others, on sustainability initiatives through the Sustainability Resource
Hub and have updated our Natural Capital Awareness document.
Case Studies
Last reviewed: 24 Jan 2019