Sustainability: How Food and Drink Businesses Can Benefit

Due to climate change, the pressure on businesses to embrace sustainability continues to grow. This is particularly evident for the food and drink manufacturer industry — where energy usage is the fourth highest in the UK.  

We look at why it makes good business sense for food and drink manufacturers to become more sustainable as soon as possible.

A positive work in progress

Whilst every industry is some way off achieving long-term climate change goals, the food and drink processing industry is making small steps towards a brighter future. This is documented by the Food and Drink Federation (FDF), who say its members achieved a 53.2% reduction in CO₂ emissions in 2019 compared to 1990.  

According to the FDF, this progress is down to a switch towards cleaner fuels and the adoption of energy-efficient equipment. The organisation does, however, say that a greater focus is now needed on low carbon energy sources.

For those who’ve already started to embrace change, the benefits don’t just stop at helping the environment. Many businesses are seeing a positive impact on their bottom line too.

This is backed up by survey research from Barclays which showed 75% of UK businesses commercially benefit from going green. Over one-third of businesses even reported a drop in business costs thanks to their investments in green initiatives.

Better energy efficiency

Energy can account for more than 15% of operational expenditure for some businesses in the industry. By taking positive steps to enhance energy efficiency, food and drink businesses can reduce their carbon footprint and enjoy valuable cost savings too.

This is important for businesses who operate off-grid. With many still reliant on fossil fuels like oil, a switch to a cleaner energy source, like liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or liquefied natural gas (LNG) can make a huge difference to operating costs.

As a supplier of LPG, we know it’s a lower carbon alternative to oil, with approximately 20% lower carbon intensity, and deliver cost savings of up to 22%.

Brand image

The manufacturers working hard to become greener can benefit from one of the most invaluable aspects of any business — their brand image. In some instances, this may even mean a competitive advantage.

Research shows that 58% of consumers are more likely to buy from a company when they know the business pays close attention to its environmental impact. They’re also willing to spend up to 20% more for sustainable products and services.

Sustainability is becoming such a strong selling point for any business. It’s now an integral part of marketing and communications campaigns across the country. This is something that should resonate with any business in who’s looking to become greener but hasn’t yet tapped into the benefits.

A boost to business

Not only does sustainability help save the planet, but it boosts the bottom line of the businesses already embracing the switch. From energy efficiency to reducing waste to meeting regulations, it makes perfect sense to start implementing sustainable business practices today.

At Flogas, we work alongside a range of industries, including dairy, to help them switch to a cleaner energy supply. For more information, click here.