Origin Green webinar series explains Science Based Targets

Origin Green, Ireland’s food and drink sustainability programme, is centred on measurable difference, operating on a national scale across the entire food supply chain. This month we interview MARTIN HOFLER, Bord Bia’s Sustainability Partnership and Development Manager Origin Green, on the Science Based Targets webinar series designed to enable Origin Green member companies to take the next steps on their sustainability journey by setting Science Based Targets (SBTs). Bord Bia is working with Accenture to help deliver this special series of virtual learnings. What is the aim of this new science based targets webinar series?

It is designed to enable large scale Origin Green member companies to accelerate the development and implementation of ambitious and data-driven Science Based Targets (SBT). The series is designed to prepare Origin Green companies for the upcoming requirement that all member companies with a turnover of over €50m must establish carbon emissions targets before the end of 2022.

What are science based targets?

A science-based target is an emission target set by companies, which has a clearly defined pathway to reduce all company-related greenhouse gas emissions over a defined period. The targets are in line with what the latest climate science says is necessary to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement i.e. to limit global warming to below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C.

How will Origin Green members benefit from this series?

The process for setting SBTs can be complex, and delivery can be challenging for teams with limited capacity. The methodologies, standards, and solutions for setting and delivering on SBTs are evolving, requiring frequent review by food, drink and horticulture companies. The series guides Origin Green member companies through the process of setting and delivering on SBTs and will help members understand how to effectively communicate these targets to the market and their stakeholders.

Why is it important for companies to set SBTs?

SBTs are fast becoming the ‘quality label’ of climate action and are critical for Irish food, drink, and horticulture companies to demonstrate climate action credibility to their customers, investors, employees, and regulators.

What are the forthcoming seminars in this SBT series?

The March 29th webinar has a focus on the levers to reduce scope 1 and 2 emissions in food, drink and horticulture companies. This Reducing Emissions theme is continued in the April 7th webinar, which will explain how to implement emissions reduction into your value chain and how to address scope 3 emissions. The final SBT webinar on April 28th will explore approaches to communicating your SBTs to customers, investors and other stakeholders. Karen O’Regan, Head of Strategy at Accenture in Ireland added: “We are delighted to work with Bord Bia to deliver this important series for Origin Green companies. We know that we must accelerate our climate response across our economy and society and Science Based Targets are an important move forward element of this imperative. This series will help inform and support companies to move apace with this important issue.”