“The Eurocash Group, as one of the key leaders of the Polish FMCG market, has a huge responsibility within the framework of activities related to sustainable development. Our business covers the full life span of the product, from field to table. Therefore, we want to set standards of sustainable activities for the industry, thus setting a good example for our partners” — notes Paweł Surówka, President of the Management Board of Eurocash S.A., in the Sustainable Development Strategy.
What decarbonisation targets have been set for the Eurocash group? How does the company strive to implement them and how will this affect suppliers?
The Group's decarbonisation commitments have been set in accordance with the SBTi (Science Based Targets initiative) methodology, which helps to set ambitious, science-based targets emission reduction targets. The first is the reduction of greenhouse gases in ranges 1 and 2 (own operations), which covers 47.7% by 2030 compared to 2020.
The second component of Eurocash's objectives is emission reduction in range 3and so in the value chain. The Group announced that by 2027, the suppliers responsible for 77% of emissions Eurocash in 3 ranges will have their own climate targets in line with the SBTi.
“When we think about sustainability, we don't just think about what it is today, we think long-term about our company's strategy to meet environmental, social and corporate governance requirements. We also want our decisions to comply not only with the current regulations, but also with those planned,” says Paweł Surówka.
What does this mean for suppliers?
It is Scope 3 that accounts for the largest share of the group's emissions (more than 90%), which is why Eurocash has implemented initiatives aimed at Active involvement of key suppliers to implement the principles of sustainable development and responsible business practices. In line with the adopted objectives of the SBTi Eurocash actively engages suppliers, inter alia, by encouraging setting their own decarbonisation targets.
Our services for the development of decarbonisation strategies
We will create a decarbonization strategy for your company based on reliable data. We will combine the systematic reduction of the carbon footprint with the development of the company and indicate practical tools to implement the reduction.
How to set decarbonisation targets in line with SBTi?
First you need to familiarize yourself with the SBTi guidelines, which set out duties and work standards. Then find out the emissions generated by your company. The calculation of the carbon footprint in Ranges 1, 2 (and 3 in the case of larger companies), according to the GHG Protocol standard, is the basis here. The final result of this work is to establish decarbonization goals for your organization in accordance with the SBTi methodology at precisely defined time intervals. Importantly, the Eurocash Group plans to strengthen due diligence in the coming years, including developing a procedure for auditing suppliers to monitor compliance with “socially accepted rules”.
Monitoring the progress of decarbonisation
Achieving SBTi climate targets requires a systemic approach to emissions management and regular monitoring. At Eurocash, these activities have been integrated into existing management processes and are reported so that emission reduction is an element of the organization's daily functioning and not just an empty declaration. The Group sees the benefits of working with suppliers who practice sustainable practices, sees a great opportunity in the introduction of products with less or neutral environmental impact, as well as in increasing the share of plant products in the offer.
If you want to find out what requirements you may have as a Eurocash provider, please contact us! We will help you calculate your carbon footprint, develop reduction targets and successfully pass validation in SBTi.
