In these times of drought and gobal climate change what is being done by the Australian food and beverage industry?
Well, manufacturers are doing their bit, often in small ways, but every little bit helps.
From using ‘green’ ink to print labels and packaging, through incorporating bio-degradable materials into product packaging, to recycling of ‘grey’ water and other water-saving measures, manufacturers from small SMEs to large multinationals are trying.
It is worth doing as much as possible to minimise a business’ impact on the environment.
There is growing concern that as climates change across the world growing seasons are being impacted and ingredients may not be readily available.
Costs could rise as a result of supply chain challenges and these would hit manufacturers, who in turn might have to pass them on to consumers in the form of price hikes.
Decreased consumption of processed foods could result and this would really hit manufacturers where it hurts.
If initiatives are not already underway, now is the time to act.
Time must be made for a review of processes and systems, and changes made no matter how painful it might be to do so.
Money and time invested now in addressing the impact of environmental damage and change on a business will safeguard that business’ future.
On reading through the FOOD Challenge Awards entry forms, it was clear that many businesses are embracing change in favour of more sustainable business practices.
It is good to see that some business owners and manufacturers are aware and acting.
Of course, more always can and should be done, and as time ticks business pressures will cause even the slow and careless to take action.
But those who do not wait will reap the rewards.