Annual report 2016
Marel encourages efficient use of resources in its value chain and promotes positive environmental impact and environmental protection. Innovation is at the core of Marel’s strategy, where the focus is on continuously creating new methods for improving yields and minimizing waste in food production, reducing the use of scarce resources such as energy and water while promoting food safety, traceability and animal welfare.
One of Marel’s goals is to help its customers use less water, less energy and allow them to minimize the CO2 footprint in their production. Several projects were started to support precautionary approaches to environmental challenges. Initiatives were also created to promote greater environmental responsibility in the company’s value chain.
One of the positive impacts Marel can have on the environment is through the innovations created by its employees who are constantly striving to improve different aspects of processing. Currently, the impact the food processing industry has on the environment in all stages of the supply chain is one of the largest contributors to global warming. Although farming and agriculture are the stages responsible for the largest environmental footprint, the post-farm stages also play their role.
Marel takes great pride in its role in minimizing the use of resources such as energy and water for its customers. Many of the company’s solutions help food processors reduce their environmental footprint radically while at the same time increasing throughput and efficiency.
Employee air travel is one of Marel’s negative impacts on the environment. Carbon emissions by the aviation industry is considered one of the leading contributors to global warming in the world. It is therefore important for Marel to understand the role the company plays in global warming through employee travel.
In 2016, a new travel platform was implemented that allows the company to monitor and coordinate the CO2 emissions caused by employee traveling.
Marel's travel policy aims to continuously lower emission levels by actively encouraging employees to use alternative ways of meeting and communicating with each other and customers.
Total CO2 emission from travel amounted to 7,654 tons.
In an effort to minimize energy consumption Marel installed several electric car charging stations for staff and visitors at the company headquarters. The company also uses LED lighting wherever possible. In addition, Marel is involved with several local projects that focus on increasing energy efficiency.
In 2016, Marel started looking at its own environmental footprint. The company will continue to monitor and manage its environmental footprint with the aim of contributing to a more sustainable future.
Total energy consumption in 2016 amounted to 25,169 MWh.
