GNT achieves 26% carbon reduction at EXBERRY colour production facilities
GNT Group has announced substantial progress in its sustainability initiatives, achieving a 26% reduction in carbon emissions intensity at its production facilities between 2020 and 2024. The milestone, detailed in the company’s latest sustainability report, demonstrates significant advancement toward the manufacturer’s goal of halving carbon intensity at its EXBERRY colour factories by 2030.
GNT Mierlo HQ
Carbon efficiency amid growth
The carbon reduction achievement is particularly noteworthy considering GNT’s substantial market expansion during the reporting period. Global sales of the company’s plant-based EXBERRY colours have increased by more than 50% since 2020, a growth trajectory that would typically drive proportional increases in production-related emissions.
“We are proud to say that we are still delivering on our ambitious plans to protect people and planet while achieving significant global growth,” said Hendrik Hoeck, CEO at GNT Group. “Our 2024 report underlines our continued determination to lead the food colouring industry on sustainability and ensure that GNT is in a position to thrive for generations to come.”
Water efficiency targets surpassed
The sustainability report reveals that water efficiency at GNT’s production facilities has improved by 30% compared to 2020 levels, significantly exceeding the company’s original 20% reduction target. This achievement demonstrates the effectiveness of GNT’s resource management strategies across its manufacturing operations in the Netherlands, Germany, and United States.
Agricultural sustainability progress
GNT has also made substantial progress in its agricultural sustainability initiatives. By the end of 2024, 80% of contract farmers growing raw materials for EXBERRY colours had achieved Farm Sustainability Assessment (FSA) Silver or Gold certification. This progress supports the company’s commitment to ensuring all contract farmers participate in sustainable agriculture training programmes.
Focus shifting to scope 3 emissions
With GNT on track to meet its direct emissions targets, the company is now expanding its focus to address indirect emissions throughout its value chain.
“We have made excellent progress at our production sites and now need to work with our suppliers to achieve reductions in other areas,” explained Rutger de Kort, Sustainability Manager at GNT Group. “This is more challenging as these emissions are outside our direct control, but our closely managed supply chain gives us a real advantage and we are developing plans to address the biggest hotspots.”
The company’s sustainability credentials were recently validated by an EcoVadis gold medal, placing GNT among the top 3% of food manufacturers for environmental and ethical activities. GNT also provides customers with comprehensive Product Environmental Footprint information across scopes 1, 2, and 3 for its EXBERRY colours, supporting transparent decision-making in food formulation.
- For more information, visit: https://exberry.com/en/sustainability-report-2024
