This year will be remembered as one in which businesses began to make good on ambitious net-zero commitments. With much of the low-hanging fruit now picked, the focus has shifted to the challenge of achieving deep decarbonisation of food and drink supply chains.
At the same time, there is growing recognition that carbon is not the only game in
town. Decarbonisation is part of a holistic approach to environmental improvement
that spans key indicators such as biodiversity, soil health and water.
Our polls of the public indicate that – despite ongoing issues with the cost of living and global conflicts – climate concern is proving resilient and, in some cases, bouncing back after a dip last year. For example, nearly a third said they choose a place to eat because of its ethics – up from a quarter in 2023. Thirty-seven percent would stop using a restaurant, pub or café if they thought it was wasting energy – up nearly 10% from 2023.
This year’s Sustainability Index is packed with businesses making positive strides in areas such as net-zero, waste and packaging. It also contains hard truths: progress in certain areas is not nearly fast enough. Food waste reduction needs to increase significantly if targets are to be reached, while engagement on water scarcity remains, well, scarce.
Efforts to improve diversity and inclusion are ongoing – with, this year, a particular focus on mental health and wellbeing and neurodiversity. Drawing on insights generously shared by leaders in the hospitality and foodservice sector, consumer research conducted exclusively for this report by Vypr, and wider industry analysis, the 2024 Footprint Sustainability Index contains the knowledge you need to deliver your ESG goals.
You can download the report here
The preview for the launch of the 2024 Footprint Sustainability Index, in association with Nestlé Professional, was held live on YouTube on Wednesday July 17th at 11am. As well as a presentation of the report’s findings and anecdotes, this preview features a panel session including
Claire Atkins Morris – Director of Sustainability, Sodexo UK & Ireland
Julia Jones – Head of B2B Marketing, Nestlé Professional
Ollie Rosevear – Director of Sustainability, Fuller’s
