Food Drink Ireland (FDI) has published a report that calls for investment and innovation to advance sustainability in the food manufacturing industry.
The Ibec group representing the food and beverage sector published the report this week.
The report is titled ‘Prepared Consumer Foods Sustainability Report: Driving better practices across the supply chain.’
Through ten industry case studies, the it demonstrates the high level of commitment, investment and innovation from the food sector in reducing its environmental impact.
It also highlights how this is done while continuing to produce consumers’ favourite food and drink products.
Additional Supports
The FDI is calling on the government to introduce a range of additional supports to accelerate the transition to more sustainable practices across food manufacturing businesses.
It called on the government to provide financing reports to incentivise investment in sustainable packaging and transport initiatives, support for recycling infrastructure and incentives to scale up the bioeconomy, particularly in the agrifood sector.
It also asked for continued public sector investment into industry-led applied and fundamental research, particularly through the National Prepared Consumer Foods Centre.
The FDI requested a regular review of investment supports such as EIIS and R&D tax credit to ensure a taxation environment which encourages investment in innovation.
Finally, it asked that appropriate focus is maintained on food safety within the context of sustainability developments and innovations.
‘Push For Improved Circularity’
Speaking to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Environmental and Climate Action, FDI Director Paul Kelly said, “The food and drink sector is committed to contributing to the creation of a circular economy and working collaboratively along the supply chain with suppliers, retailers and consumers to support sustainable consumption patterns.
“Food and drink companies will continue to push for improved circularity and environmental performance of their products wherever possible, while ensuring the highest level of quality and safety.”
The Minister of State with responsibility for Public Procurement, eGovernment and Circular Economy Ossian Smyth said, “I am glad to see the business sector playing its part in moving to a circular economy.
“It is important that businesses innovate so they can survive in a changing world.”
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