MUNICH, GERMANY - As it works to eliminate waste from its operations completely, IFCO has rolled out a comprehensive new Environment Social Governance (ESG) 2025 strategy, outlining key objectives to combat climate change, embrace diversity and inclusion, and reduce food waste and single-use packaging. In addition to the ambitious long-term blueprint, the solutions provider has also published its first standalone ESG Report.

"We have already achieved considerable success with our measures to be more environmentally friendly. At the same time, we acknowledge that it is time for further action. Together with our partners, we are working every day to make our business model even more sustainable. Our new ESG strategy helps us to fulfill our purpose to make fresh grocery supply chains sustainable and have a meaningful positive impact on our planet and society," explained Michael Pooley, Chief Executive Officer.

In addition to working with food banks around the world to reduce food waste and support people in need, the industry ally has already taken several measures to optimize the sustainability of its business operations. According to a press release, materials are recycled and, at the end of their life cycle, reused to produce new IFCO RPCs, one of the reasons why the company has received Cradle to Cradle certification at Gold level in Material reutilization. IFCO also reduces CO₂ emissions by using multimodal transport, and is improving technology in its washing centers to maximize water reuse and reduce energy consumption.

IFCO's has developed an extensive ESG strategy to thrive in the circular economy, which focuses on three main pillars:

• Thriving Business – IFCO aims to make fresh food supply chains resilient to the challenges of the future through circular economy, innovation, and best-in-class governance. Specifically, the company aims to double the environmental benefits it generates in its customers' supply chains as well as implementing adequate policies, training, and expanding customer collaboration programs
• Thriving Planet – In order to further protect and regenerate natural resources, IFCO is going beyond the benefits of its Share & Reuse model. For example, the company aims to achieve carbon-neutral operations by 2025 and net zero emissions across its value chain by 2040. In addition, IFCO is working to eliminate waste completely
• Thriving Society – IFCO is a safe, diverse, and inclusive employer. The company has a target of 40 percent women in management positions and aims to achieve best-in-class employee satisfaction. In addition, IFCO is a pioneer in health and safety and works to reduce food waste through cooperation with food banks worldwide and innovative solutions

The company also recently became a signatory of the UN Global Compact reinforcing its commitment to human rights, labor standards, the environment, and anti-corruption.

As outlined in the report, IFCO's 2025 goals directly align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and encompass its ambition to thrive in the circular economy with its partners.

ANUK will stay tuned to find out how this ambitious, long-term strategy will drive the company forward, so keep an eye out for our next report.

IFCO