“The roadmap that we operate on in terms of our
overall strategy is called ‘Food Harvest 2020’, and
working with this blueprint, we have seen our exports
increase to the tune of 25% since the low of 2009”,
assets Cotter,
“Of course, this pace of growth can’t be expected
every year, but we do anticipate a modest level of
growth over the course of the next few years.”
According to the chief executive, energy consumption
is also a major issue for Bord Bia.
“We have an ongoing programme that we run in
partnership with the Carbon Trust. By the end
of 2012 we expect to have audited and achieved
accreditation on the carbon emissions of over 30,000
farms. We cannot just be seen to be green – we must
actually prove it.”
The UK, USA, France, Belgium, Germany, Sweden
and China are among the main markets that
Irish produce is exported to. Initiatives that are
implemented by Bord Bia on the macro level, such
as a biodiversity programme and carbon emissions
programme, seek to have a lasting positive effect on
the industry overall.
“Seeing as our research indicated that Ireland is
perceived as green and natural, we must go the
extra mile to ensure that it stays that way. We
have therefore implemented a new biodiversity
programme that seeks to protect and conserve our
biological resources, heritage and tradition. There
is no template for this programme internationally.
We are breaking new ground because it is the first
programme of this sort undertaken in the world.
The programme takes a holistic approach to the
management of our biological resources, from foliage
to water.”
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