The close link with the agricultural sector and the social welfare of both producers and consumers make sustainability a top priority for all potato processing companies. Through the umbrella organisation Fvp house (Vegebe, Belgapom and Fresh Trade Belgium), Vegebe has been promoting sustainable entrepreneurship through various projects and initiatives for years.
During previous sustainability projects, we worked on:
- a CSR sector passport as a tool for companies to start working on sustainability reporting themselves (2013-2015);
- refinement and further alignment of CSR sector passports with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) (2017-2019);
- sustainability reporting and individual guidance to companies through the "Sustatool" project (2018-2021).
With support from the Federal Institute for Sustainable Development (FIDO), we were able to launch a new sustainability project on due diligence and sustainable supply chains in 2023. In collaboration with Sliding Doors, we informed interested member companies on the new European legislation on Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence (CSDD). Designed to help companies identify and mitigate sustainability risks from their supply chains and sourcing activities, the CSDD directive requires companies to be more transparent about their human rights and environmental impacts.
Together with interested member companies, we exchanged experiences on due diligence during five Learning Networks and invited interesting guest speakers highlighting different aspects on sustainability. The main conclusions from these Learning Networks and our recommendations to the government have been compiled in a Sectoral Guide.
In collaboration with BELFertil and Belgapom with expert input from Geert Haesaert of Ghent University, we've developed a specialized platform. This platform serves as a comprehensive guide for growers, crop advisors, and consultants on optimizing fertilization practices. Our aim? To promote more efficient use of mineral fertilizers, enhance the quality of potatoes, reduce costs, and decrease environmental impact. A clear advantage for everyone! Learn more at www.duurzaambemesten.be.
