In a sweet boost to its sustainability endeavours, the Ferrero Group, the Italian confectionery behemoth, has rolled out its 15th Sustainability Report, unveiling remarkable progress across its green agenda.
From bolstering supply chain transparency to nurturing eco-friendly packaging and community upliftment initiatives, the maker of beloved treats like Nutella and Ferrero Rocher has left no stone unturned.
The report, encompassing the 2022-23 fiscal, bears testimony to Ferrero's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the environment and fostering responsible business practices.
A noteworthy feat is the 90 percent traceability achieved in its hazelnut supply chain, marking a significant stride from the previous year's 79 percent. This triumph was orchestrated through collaborations with farmers, suppliers, and research institutions, championing sustainable agricultural methods.
Leveraging cutting-edge satellite mapping technology, Ferrero has also elevated its cocoa traceability to an impressive 93 percent, ensuring transparency from farm to factory. Tackling intricate challenges like deforestation and unethical labor practices, the confectionery titan has joined forces with global organizations like Save the Children and the International Labor Organization (ILO), extending support to communities in cocoa-producing regions like Ivory Coast.
Giovanni Ferrero, the Executive Chairman, underscored the company's deep-rooted commitment to sustainability, stating, "Ferrero recognizes the critical role it plays in safeguarding nature for future generations. Sustainability is embedded in our long-term strategy, guiding every strategic decision we take.
"Further cementing its eco-conscious stride, Ferrero has elevated the proportion of its recyclable, reusable, or compostable packaging to 90.7 percent, up from 88.5 percent in the previous year. Additionally, the company has achieved a remarkable 20 percent reduction in water intensity across its plants since the 2017-18 base year.
Closer to home, Ferrero India has emerged as a shining exemplar of sustainability, with 97.95 percent of its packaging now designed to be recyclable, reusable, or compostable. The Indian arm has also orchestrated a 15 percent reduction in its plastic footprint compared to 2020-21 levels and slashed carbon emissions by an impressive 3,455 tons in 2023-24.
Moreover, Ferrero India has installed solar panels spanning 30,000 square meters, catering to 13 percent of its factory's energy needs and mitigating 3,000 tons of carbon emissions annually. The company's water conservation efforts have yielded a 23% reduction in water intensity at its plant since the 2017-18 base year.
Through its 'Kinder Joy of Moving' initiative, Ferrero India has engaged over 10,000 children in Maharashtra, fostering active lifestyles and promoting physical well-being.
As the world grapples with environmental challenges, Ferrero's steadfast sustainability journey serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring businesses to embrace eco-conscious practices and create a greener, more responsible future.