The UK Food and Drink Federation (FDF) this week defined what 'sustainability' means to the UK food and drink manufacturing industry.
According to an FDF statement, the report shows how the food and drink industry is addressing the government's four key sustainable development objectives: social progress; environmental protection; conserving natural resources; and stable economic growth.
The report also identifies major challenges facing the industry, from consumer desire for 'purer' food to sustainable agriculture. In response to the challenges the FDF has come up with some recommendations for further action.
FDF Director General Sylvia Jay said: " Our industry takes its responsibility for the environment very seriously. Sustainable development is more than adopting a few 'green' initiatives.
"Our next step will be to develop a series of Key Performance Indicators so that we can measure progress. We plan to consult as many people aspossible and will publish the incentives in a final report, in time for theUnited Nations World Summit on Sustainable Development, Johannesburg, August 2002."
Full details of the report can be accessed on the FDF website.