Agribite Series, "Cultivating Sustainability: EU Companies Leading the Path to Net Zero."

In this podcast series, we explore the transition of the agri-food sector towards net-zero emissions, and we aim to spotlight the industry's endeavours to combat climate change. Our scope is to uncover how companies are shaping sustainable, resilient, and environmentally friendly supply chains by showcasing the initiatives of leading actors from farm to fork.

For each episode, we will dive deep into the strategies of a specific agri-food company, assessing their contribution to the European Union's 2050 climate neutrality goal.

Global Climate Action

Join us in this latest episode as we delve into Danone's pivotal role in the food revolution, focusing on sustainability and health across its portfolio, including renowned brands like Evian and Activia. Discover the Danone Impact Journey, a new framework that outlines the company's ambitious sustainability goals. We spotlight the Danone Ecosystem, an initiative driving public interest projects that enhance sustainable sourcing, regenerative agriculture, and promote healthy lifestyles. Celebrating its 100th project in 2023, the Ecosystem showcases Danone's commitment to environmental sustainability and community inclusion.

Featuring Anco Van Schaik, Agriculture Director Cycles and Procurement, and Frederick Pasquier, Operational Director of the Danone Ecosystem sustainability fund at Danone. Join us as we explore how Danone and its Ecosystem are contributing to a more sustainable agri-food industry.

First episode features Esteban Mezzano, General Counsel Operations & Sustainability at Nestlé. Established over 150 years ago, Nestlé is one of the world’s largest, most diversified food and beverages company. They have a unique global footprint and sell products in 188 countries worldwide.

Esteban is based in Switzerland at the Nestlé headquarters. With over 20 years of experience as a business lawyer in Nestlé in different countries, Esteban currently leads a global legal team dedicated to supporting the Group's Corporate Operations (procurement, agriculture, manufacturing, supply chain, and sustainability). On sustainability, his team oversees the legal dimension of important ESG regulations and commitments made by Nestlé, such as those related to climate change, plastic packaging, water, and human rights.

The Climate Bonds Agri-Food Transition Programme aims to develop transition plans and criteria to significantly impact climate change. It seeks to align with the Paris Agreement's objectives, aiming to cut emissions by nearly half by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2050, while also addressing other food system-related goals.

Starting in 2021, the programme is focusing on creating investment criteria for transitioning Crop and Livestock production, Deforestation Conversion Free sourcing, Food Value Chains, and Alternative Proteins. These criteria are anticipated to be ready for certification under the Climate Bonds Standard in 2024, facilitating a rapid and meaningful climate impact through the agri-food sector.