Bord Bia joins UN Global Compact in New York
Launched in 2000 by the UN, the UNGC is the world's largest corporate sustainability initiative with more than 13,000 corporate participants and stakeholders from over 160 countries.
Members of the UNGC are required to align their operations and strategies to support the ten principles of the UNGC with respect to human rights, labor, environment and anti-corruption as well as advancing the UN Goals including the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Speaking in New York, Irish Food Board CEO, Tara McCarthy said: “The Irish Food Board is honored to join the United Nations Global Compact and pledge our support to upholding the ten principles of the UNGC. Membership of the UNGC further underlines the Irish Food Board’s commitment to promoting the Sustainable Development Goals within the Irish food and drink industry through the development of Origin Green, Ireland’s national food and drink sustainability program.”
Sharing best practices
Through membership of the UNGC the Irish Food Board will gain access to a range of international stakeholders and resources – to share best practices, guidance and emerging solutions to address global sustainability challenges and support private businesses to deliver upon the SDGs.
McCarthy added, “We welcome the opportunity that memberships affords to collaborate with the UNGC to share knowledge, experience and ideas for the advancement of sustainability goals worldwide”.
Key principles of the UNGC are communication and collaboration with all members encouraged to inform stakeholders and the public about their involvement with the Global Compact. Members must also actively encourage other businesses and stakeholders to participate in the UN Global Compact and engage in collaborative projects.
The Irish Food Board's Origin Green sustainability program aligns to nine of the 17 goals: Good Health and Wellbeing, Clean Water and Sanitation, Affordable and Clean Energy, Sustainable Cities and Communities, Responsible Consumption and Production, Climate Action, Life below Water, Life on Land, and Partnerships for the Goals.
