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The meat processor has announced targets to cut carbon dioxide emissions (C02) by 50% and reduce water and energy use by 40% by 2025.
Ireland’s national policy position is to reduce emissions of C02 by at least 80% by 2050, relative to 1990 levels. At EU level, the targets are for greenhouse gas emissions to be cut by 40% and a 27% improvement in energy efficiency by 2030.
The commitments by Dawn were outlined in the company’s first corporate social responsibility (CSR) report.
’2025 is fast approaching’
Group head of the CSR report David O’Flynn commented: “At Dawn Meats, we recognise that doing the right thing will build a more robust business for the future which will benefit employees, customers and farmers.
“Our CSR strategy is aligned with the UN sustainable development goals and I am very excited about what we have committed to achieve and we will engage widely to deliver on these objectives.”
An example of progress can be found in the Dawn Meats eco drive initiative, which saw hauliers reduce fuel by 1m litres, saving 2,500t of C02, he said.
CEO Niall Browne added: “2025 is fast approaching and we will continue to keep a close eye on our targets to ensure that we meet and exceed them where possible.”
Climate change advisory council
Dawn Meats, which has seven plants in Ireland, makes over €1bn in annual revenue and works with 15,000 Irish farmers.
The company processes beef and lamb and exports to over 40 countries.
Last year, the first report of the climate change advisory council proposed that agriculture should create a robust road map towards achieving its contribution to 2050 carbon emission reduction targets.
The group, which is an independent body established under the 2015 Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act, is tasked with advising the Government on how the country can achieve a low-carbon economy by 2050.
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