Dawn Meats has reported a 63% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions.
The reduction has been achieved over a six-year period from 2018 to 2024 as part of the company’s €100m-plus (£87m-plus) Plan Four Zero sustainability strategy, which includes a target of reaching operational net zero by 2040.
The sustainability update from the business showed how the company had saved enough water to fill more than 1,272 Olympic-sized swimming pools and has increased the volume of waste recycled, reused and recovered to 75%.
The update also included a commitment by Dawn Meats to roll out solar installations at its sites in the UK and Ireland, following the successful installation of solar PV panels at the company’s Irish headquarters in Grannagh, County Waterford.
This €1.5m (£1.3m) investment generates enough energy to power 210 homes for an entire year and is expected to deliver a return on investment in 4.5 years.
“Driven by our commitment of €100m to the Plan Four Zero strategy, we continue to collaborate with industry and supply chain partners to improve the sustainability of our products and remain competitive in the global marketplace,” said Niall Browne, chief executive of Dawn Meats.
Among the updates was one regarding its use of plastic, with the company removing more than 3,000 tonnes of plastic since 2016. Initiatives have included the introduction of fibre-based options for meat trays and the development of right-size trays for product.
The business hopes to reduce scope 3 emissions intensity by 28% per tonne of finished product by 2030. From 2018 to 2024, the company achieved a 9% reduction in Scope 3 emissions intensity mainly due to a reduction in the average carbon footprint on the assured farms that supply products to Dawn Meats.
“This report reflects the united efforts of our 8,000 staff members in achieving our shared progress,” said Gill Higgins, sustainability director at Dawn Meats.
“Our Plan Four Zero strategy ensures our actions remain focused on addressing the most pressing challenges within the industry and work cross-functionally to implement the plan.
“As a business, we are proud of the exceptional teamwork and collaboration which has helped us to execute our sustainability strategy and deliver against our goals.”
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