Sysco Ireland has joined forces with its long-time partner ABP to launch an ambitious five-year collaborative sustainable farming project that aims to pioneer regenerative farming methods.
Ireland’s largest foodservice specialist set out the plan – named the Regen Initiative – with Ireland’s leading beef processor, in a move that aims to benefit the wider farming industry.
The initiative will follow Tipperary farmer Aoibhín Coady’s journey as she trials a wide range of sustainable agricultural practices.
The first of its kind in the country, the initiative will not only help to combat the effects of climate change, but it will highlight the processes and benefits of farmers, while continuing to produce high-quality beef that is synonymous with Sysco Ireland and ABP.
Throughout the project, a panel of independent experts will scientifically measure and verify the results.
‘Work In Harmony With Nature’
Speaking about the project, the chief executive of Sysco Ireland, Mark Lee, said, “We are proud to partner with ABP and Aoibhín, and to be the first foodservice specialist involved in a research project of this significance.
“The ultimate aim of Regen is to support the development of farming processes that work in harmony with nature while providing the healthy and high-quality food our customers demand.
“At Sysco, we are steadfast in our commitment to driving innovation and promoting sustainability across every part of the food industry.
“This pioneering project plays an important part in achieving this ambition.”
‘Educating Others’
The managing director of ABP Ireland and Poland, Kevin Cahill, added to this sentiment, saying, “ABP is committed to exploring and implementing farming practices that not only support farmers and sustainable agriculture, but also enhance biodiversity, improve soil health, and help mitigate the effects of climate change.
“This project with Sysco Ireland and Aoibhín Coady is an exciting opportunity to lead by example, demonstrating the positive role that beef farming can play in high-quality food production while preserving our natural resources for future generations.”
Throughout the project, Coady will learn from industry experts as she applies regenerative farming practices and works to improve soil and water quality, biodiversity, animal health, and crop diversity.
Coady said, “The new processes that we are incorporating into our farming will not only safeguard the future of my family’s farm, but will also be shared throughout the farming community, with the aim of educating others on the benefits of regenerative practices and inspiring more farmers to adopt them.”
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