Verstegen’s climate goals officially approved

Verstegen Spices & Sauces has officially had its climate targets approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). With this, the Rotterdam-based company has taken another significant step toward achieving its Net-Zero target by 2050.

The company aims to reduce its direct emissions (scopes 1 and 2) by a substantial 90% by 2035 compared to 2018. This goal clearly exceeds what is typical within the food sector. Verstegen has already made significant progress; since 2018, emissions in these categories have been reduced by 42%. Regarding indirect emissions—also known as scope 3—the company aligns itself with the Paris Climate Agreement.

Agriculture plays a crucial role

Nearly half of Verstegen’s indirect emissions originate from the agricultural cultivation of ingredients. To tackle this issue head-on, the company has set additional targets under the FLAG framework (Forest, Land and Agriculture). Verstegen aims to achieve fully deforestation-free supply chains by the end of 2025. Furthermore, FLAG-related emissions must be reduced by at least 30% by 2030 compared to 2022.

Actively involving suppliers

Since 2020, Verstegen has actively encouraged suppliers to minimize the use of pesticides and fertilizers through regenerative agricultural practices. This approach improves soil health while simultaneously reducing emissions and increasing CO₂ sequestration in the soil.

Marianne van Keep, Chief Sustainability Officer at Verstegen, emphasizes the importance of intensive collaboration within the supply chain: “Only through long-term cooperation and shared responsibility can we achieve real change. That's how we truly want to make a meaningful contribution to the world.”

Verstegen.nl