Ardo CSR rapport 2023 - Flipbook - Page 3
Foreword by the CEO
Sustainability has been an integral part of our DNA since the very
environmental targets—carbon footprint reduction and residue-free
beginning. When Edouard started out, he was already focused on soil
production. We have embraced a circular economy, using recycled
health and sustainable farming practices. As such, he paved the way
water reservoirs and biomethanisation to generate electricity from
for the sustainable agriculture practices we promote today. Now,
vegetable waste. And we are actively invested in enhancing the
we take pride in the fact that his granddaughter, Emilie Haspeslagh,
biodiversity in and around our growing areas through nature reserves,
will take this legacy to greater heights as our newly appointed
flower beds and beehives.
Sustainability Director.
Regardless of all these positive realisations, we still see challenges.
Sustainability is present in everything we do. It is the foundation on
Climate change is increasingly disrupting our crop cycles, demanding
which we base our decision-making regarding customers, investments
innovative solutions. For this reason, we have launched MIMOSA+,
and the modernisation of our business. To stress our commitment,
our regenerative agriculture programme. Demonstrations during
we have sharpened our purpose: it is our gift to the world to provide
"Let's Meet in the Field" highlighted the main pillars of our
On the cover of this report, you are greeted by the joyous faces of
people nutritious, plant-based food, both today and for generations to
MIMOSA+ programme, focusing on soil fertility, water conservation,
a few of our team members’ children. They embody the future we strive
come. All while preserving nature’s gifts and minimising our ecological
enhancing biodiversity, cover crops and responsible fertiliser use.
to safeguard. The questions that echo in our minds, about climate,
footprint.
These practices collectively contribute to reducing our carbon
the future and the well-being of our children are catalysts for action.
footprint of field activities. It is our way of not just adapting but
How do we ensure a world where nutritious food, nourished by
We want to share our take on sustainability in every way we can.
the earth and sustained by responsible practices, is available for
That is why our achievements regarding sustainability and regenerative
generations to come?
agriculture take centre stage in our new website, as well as in this
As you delve into these pages, remember, we cannot tackle these
new edition of our Sustainability Report.
challenges alone. The impact of climate change resonates throughout
Our "Let's Meet in the Field" event last September was not just an
thriving in the face of climate change.
our business ecosystem—from farmers and producers to Ardo,
event; it was a testament to our commitment to sustainability and
Within these pages, audited figures tell a compelling story of our
consumers, governments, banks and universities. Each entity plays
regenerative agriculture. Over a week, we welcomed more than a
progress. A 20% reduction in our carbon footprint from 2020 sets
a role, each voice contributes to the symphony of change. We invite
thousand guests from our business ecosystem. During the event,
the stage for an ambitious goal—a 40% reduction by 2030. We are
you to join forces, to address the significant challenges ahead, to
we showcased our roots, beginning with two brothers, Edouard and
contributing to a healthier plate by striving for zero residues on
secure a future in which our children thrive. A future full of healthy
Richard Haspeslagh, whose shared vision grew into the global force
the final product. We achieved an impressive 78% for Ardo-grown
fresh frozen vegetables, fruit and herbs. This will be the legacy we
that is Ardo today. From the fertile lands of Ardooie to the acquisition
vegetables in the past year and aiming for 80% by 2027.
proudly pass on.
fresh frozen vegetables, fruit and herbs, distributing our products
Our commitment extends beyond statistics. We secured a
Let this report be a testament to our collective responsibility
to over 100 countries.
sustainability-linked loan, reinforcing our dedication with two
—a gift from Ardo to the world.
of ArdoVLM in North America, we are proud to be a world leader in
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Gabrielle Kalkwijk, CEO Ardo
