Northern Ireland’s largest poultry processor has achieved the highest scoring level for sustainability in the Business in the Community Northern Ireland (BITCNI) Environmental Benchmarking Survey for the fifth year running.
The news comes just three months after the firm, which is also Northern Ireland’s largest employer, was bought by US giant Pilgrim’s Pride. The deal is thought to have been worth €1 billion.
Moy Park has taken part in the survey every year since it began in 1998 and has “consistently qualified as one of the top scoring companies” in the region, achieving the ‘Platinum’ award for the last five years.
The survey recognises and rewards those organisations that go above and beyond their legal requirements to minimise their environmental impacts and better manage their resources.
To be considered for sustainability status, businesses are required to provide in-depth evidence and analysis of their green credentials, environmental management approach and performance.
Submissions are then analysed and reviewed and verified by an independent third party as appropriate.
Value-led
Speaking about the accolade Declan Cunningham, head of sustainability and risk at Moy Park, said the firm had made some victories in reducing its environmental impact.
He said: “As a values-led responsible business, Moy Park is committed to delivering sustainable practices so we are thrilled to be awarded ‘Platinum’ status for the fifth year running.
Last year, we reduced our overall electricity intensity by 8%, thermal energy intensity by 6% and water use intensity by 4%, surpassing all our targets.
“We also maintained our zero waste to landfill achievement and reduced our CO2 emissions by circa 6,500t.
“We will continue to build upon these achievements in 2018 and beyond. We are delighted to support Northern Ireland’s leading environmental benchmarking survey and I would encourage all organisations focused on enhancing their environmental performance to participate in the survey. By doing so, we can drive responsible behaviour through the supply chain, together.”
