Zanda Šadre, Corporate Responsibility Director Rimi Baltic
Sustainability has become a crucial goal for both businesses and consumers, with the food industry playing a pivotal role—globally, it accounts for approximately 30% of all CO₂ emissions. As an industry that influences the daily choices of millions of people, the food sector holds immense potential to reduce its environmental impact while making sustainable options accessible and convenient for everyone. Is it possible to combine innovation, CO₂ reduction, and consumer needs to create a greener and more sustainable future? Baltic companies are already taking significant steps in this direction, proving that sustainability is not just a trend but a survival strategy in today’s market.
A few years ago, corporate sustainability may have seemed like a distant and idealistic goal. Today, it has become an essential strategic component for long-term growth and competitiveness. More companies are establishing dedicated sustainability departments tasked with meeting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards and promoting sustainable practices throughout the value chain. This shift reflects a gradual change in mindset—sustainability is no longer seen solely as a corporate responsibility initiative but as a vital competitive factor. It helps companies reduce their environmental impact and build stronger relationships with customers, investors, and society.
Unified Understanding and Precise Impact Measurement Are Necessary
A responsible approach to impact measurement and process transparency is a crucial step toward a sustainable future, as companies develop comprehensive impact reports. This means calculating their carbon footprint not only for direct emissions (Scopes 1 and 2) but also for emissions throughout the supply chain (Scope 3), which often make up the largest portion of their total impact. Addressing this complex challenge requires close collaboration with suppliers and customers to promote sustainable practices and transparency. The accuracy of sustainability reports needs to reach the same level as financial statements, driven by efforts from businesses, regulatory bodies, and investor demands.
According to a Swedbank survey, only about 8% of companies in Latvia currently measure their CO₂ emissions. However, market and societal expectations are rapidly rising, and corporate involvement in sustainability activities is expected to grow significantly. For example, "Rimi" has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and is actively working to reduce its carbon footprint. While the company’s Scope 1 and 2 emissions account for only 3% of its total, addressing Scope 3 emissions—responsible for the largest impact—is critical.
Making Sustainability More Accessible
With the food industry globally accounting for approximately 30% of CO₂ emissions, it has significant potential to drive positive change in sustainability. This year’s Baltic Sustainability Innovation Awards include a special category dedicated to food innovations. This demonstrates that sustainable choices are not only vital for the environment but also enhance consumer experiences. It is important to ensure that sustainable products become an easy and convenient everyday choice—from shopping to food preparation and waste management.
Sustainability needs to become a shared societal habit, embedded in every daily decision—on both individual and corporate levels. To ease this transition, state support, such as funding mechanisms, is essential to make sustainable choices accessible to all residents and businesses. The Baltic Sustainability Innovation Awards are a significant step in this direction, bringing together startups, established corporations, policymakers, and society to achieve sustainability goals and preserve a healthy environment for future generations.
Comments