With its latest Sustainability Report, Ferrero is showcasing its commitment to having a positive impact throughout its value chain
Ferrero, renowned as one of the leading sweet-packaged food companies globally, has made sustainability a central pillar in its operational strategy. By spotlighting its commitment to environmental responsibility, Ferrero aims to create a positive impact across its value chain.
In its 16th sustainability report, Ferrero outlines ongoing advancements in key sustainability areas.
“Sustainability is deeply embedded in Ferrero’s long-term strategy,” says Giovanni Ferrero, Executive Chairman of the Ferrero Group.
“It’s a fundamental driver of business resilience and shapes the decisions we make, as we grow responsibly. In the face of global challenges, particularly climate change, our commitment remains clear: to source responsibly, innovate boldly and safeguard the natural world for future generations.
“This progress is made possible by embracing collective action, leveraging innovation, research and development, and continuously learning from experience to deliver measurable, meaningful impact.”
More than 90% of crucial ingredients are now mapped to their origins, thanks to partnerships with Sourcemap and Starling. This precision in tracking has resulted in a remarkable 97% traceability for both cocoa and palm oil, while hazelnuts have reached 94%.
Sustainable carbon emission reduction targets
Ferrero has dedicated itself to reducing its carbon footprint by 2030.
The company has made measurable progress toward halving greenhouse gas emissions since the 2017/18 baseline, including a reduction of 21.7% in Scope 1 and 2 emissions.
Ferrero has refined its accounting practices for Scope 3 emissions – both FLAG (Forest, Land, and Agriculture) and non-FLAG – to improve the accuracy of carbon data. Additionally, the company now sources 90% of its electricity for manufacturing and warehousing from renewable sources.
The company has ensured that 92.1% of its packaging materials are designed to be recyclable, reinforcing its commitment to making over 90% of its packaging reusable, recyclable, or compostable.
Innovative reductions in plastic packaging
Ferrero has made tangible progress in cutting down on virgin plastic usage, achieving a 13% decrease in the plastic-to-product ratio.
Initiatives include converting Ferrero Rocher boxes from polystyrene to polypropylene in North America and China, an effort estimated to save 11,000 tonnes of plastic. The company has also launched its Nutella Plant-Based jars using 60% recycled glass and introduced Kinder Joy’s paper spoon.
All of Ferrero’s plants have received certification under the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) Standard. In promoting responsible consumption, Ferrero has emphasised precise serving sizes – with 85% of marketed volumes being at or below 130 kcal per serving, 63% being 100 kcal or less and 91% being below 150 kcal per serving.
“We made steady progress on our sustainability agenda during fiscal year 2023/2024,” says Lapo Civiletti, Chief Executive Officer of the Ferrero Group.
“I am particularly proud of the ongoing steps we are taking to achieve our long-term commitments.
“We have successfully advanced our sustainability journey while maintaining strong financial stewardship across the company. We are making great efforts on the traceability of our key ingredients and improving supply chain visibility, while advancing our commitments to promoting human rights and continuing our work on decarbonisation across the business.”
Ferrero’s dedication extends to empowering individuals through enduring sourcing relationships and collaborations with international and local organisations, including the International Labour Organization (ILO) and Save the Children.
The company has also partnered with the Organization of American States (OAS) to foster inclusion, equity and rights access through sports and physical activity, benefiting children, adolescents and women in the Americas.
Source: https://sustainabilitymag.com/
