Facing evolving regulations and a growing demand for sustainable products, food and beverage procurement teams are becoming key players in driving net zero product design. Carl Olivier of Sustained, a TraceGains data partner, joined a recent webinar, “The Role of Procurement in Net Zero Product Design,” to discuss how food companies can take on a more strategic role in building sustainable supply chains.
This session is part two of an exclusive webinar series, where we explore essential ESG topics designed to help you adapt to global sustainability regulations and trends. Continue reading to explore the key takeaways from this webinar.
1. Procurement’s strategic role in sustainability
Procurement teams are no longer just gatekeepers for cost and supplier quality—they are now essential drivers of sustainability initiatives. For example, reducing the lifecycle impact of food products can be achieved by sourcing eco-friendly materials and setting clear environmental criteria for supplier selection. This helps companies align with their net zero goals while enhancing long-term business viability.
2. Building sustainable supplier partnerships
The need for deeper collaboration with suppliers who share sustainability values is a key factor in enabling informed procurement decisions. Procurement teams must forge partnerships with suppliers who are committed to reducing their carbon footprint, enhancing transparency in sourcing, and complying with emerging environmental regulations. These partnerships are crucial for scaling sustainability efforts across the supply chain.
3. Technology as a tool for ESG compliance
Leveraging the right digital tools is essential for meeting complex regulatory requirements and boosting efficiency. From digital traceability systems to AI-driven data analytics, technology helps procurement teams track sustainability metrics, ensure compliance with ESG standards, and identify opportunities for improvement. Companies like Sustained, which specialize in environmental intelligence, can be a powerful enabler for achieving net zero in product design.
4. Lifecycle management for carbon reduction
The role of procurement in optimizing product lifecycle management to reduce emissions is becoming more critical as pressure for environmental accountability grows. By considering the environmental impact of products from design to disposal, procurement teams can help mitigate the carbon footprint at every stage. This holistic approach not only supports net zero goals but also enhances product innovation and overall sustainability.
5. Procurement as a catalyst for change
Procurement teams have the potential to drive real change in sustainability across the food manufacturing sector. Integrating sustainability into everyday procurement processes allows companies to meet regulatory requirements while also setting themselves apart as leaders in sustainable innovation within the food and beverage industry.
Driving sustainability through strategic procurement
At the end of the day, procurement’s strategic role in sustainable product development is fundamental to driving environmental stewardship. Sourcing eco-friendly materials, fostering sustainable supplier partnerships, and leveraging technology are vital ways procurement can reduce carbon footprints and ensure compliance with stricter environmental regulations.
To dive deeper into the strategies and insights shared, check out the full-length webinar on demand and discover how your procurement team can become a catalyst for net zero innovation.
