Al Dhahra continues to make significant progress toward its 2030 goals, despite the climate challenges it faces, as highlighted in the 2024 sustainability report. The report showcases its achievements in environmental and social areas, reflecting its strong commitment to sustainability goals despite fluctuating climate conditions.
Notable Achievements in Sustainability
Al Dhahra has achieved important milestones, including the issuance of its first carbon credits from operations in Romania. It has also expanded its regenerative agriculture practices to encompass 35% of its global agricultural operations, marking a significant step toward achieving its 2030 sustainability objectives. This expansion demonstrates the company’s commitment to implementing practices that contribute to environmental improvement.
Climate Challenges and Their Impact
Despite the climate challenges that have led to a 5% increase in emissions due to the need for additional energy for irrigation and cooling, Al Dhahra has remained steadfast in its environmental policies. Arnaud van den Berg, the CEO of the group, stated: “This report reflects our commitment to transparency and measurable progress. Despite the climate challenges, we have continued to advance our regenerative agriculture program and have achieved a significant reduction in our environmental footprint.”
Technological Investments Supporting Efficiency
Last year saw significant technological investments that contributed to improved efficiency, including the installation of Dragon Line pivot irrigation systems in Egypt and the deployment of soil moisture sensors in Morocco. The company also made notable achievements by preparing its first comprehensive map of transportation and logistics emissions. Thanks to these actions, Al Dhahra has effectively met its goals despite growing challenges.
Alignment with European Standards
Al Dhahra’s reporting approach aligns with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), facilitating compliance with changing regulatory requirements in its key markets. This report is the fifth in a series of annual sustainability reports, reaffirming the company’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Key Results for 2024
The highlights of the 2024 report include:
- Issuance of the first carbon credits in Romania through soil carbon sequestration.
- Expansion of regenerative agriculture to cover 35% of agricultural land (goal: 80% by 2030).
- Reduction of total emissions by 7%, reaching 435,000 tons of CO2 equivalent.
- Improvement in water use efficiency to 376 cubic meters per ton of production.
- Increase in the use of organic fertilizers to 6% of total usage.
- Increase in the percentage of women in senior leadership positions to 14% (goal: 18% by 2030).
Operating in 13 countries and employing over 3,100 staff, Al Dhahra remains a leader in sustainable agriculture and agricultural commodity trading, continuing its progress toward achieving its 2030 goals despite the climate challenges it faces.