Supply chains and operational conditions are subject to increasing uncertainty. CEO of food industry sustainability specialists Cress Consulting Julia Seddon explains the importance of understanding the implications for food industries. This article was first published in Food & Drink Business July/August 2020.
Disruption, adversity and challenge are nothing new in the food industry.
The climate is getting hotter and drier and access to essential resources like water and energy are more frequently disrupted. Consumers expect more action around sustainability and customer requirements have ramped up accordingly.
As we adapt as a society to higher temperatures, reduced rainfall and the ordeals of global restrictions, food producers and manufacturers face real challenges.
Drought, bushfires, storms and now pandemic play havoc with supply chains and business models making it increasingly important to find ways of maintaining profitability and growth in an ever more challenging environment.
Understanding the risks of climate change and water scarcity can help ensure organisations find options to help create a more resilient, sustainable future for their business.
Working towards a more sustainable business model also offers opportunities to save costs and improve compliance, operational efficiency and performance.
Reducing water use and food waste are practical examples of opportunities to not only improve performance, meet targets and reduce operating costs but also to reduce carbon emissions and reduce the risks of water scarcity.
Investing in a thorough understanding of the specific risks, impacts and opportunities that affect you and your supply chain increases your resilience and ability to face the challenges.
Working with expert support can help you identify the right sustainability solutions for your business.
