SUSTAINABLE CHAINS

Transcription

SUSTAINABLE CHAINS

SUSTAINABLE CHAINS
IN COOPERATION WITH
Corporate Sustainability
Report 2015
link to success
Facts and Figures
Corporate Sustainability Report 2015
> Cooperative with approximately 17,250 members.
The Corporate Sustainability Report is published annually and includes all companies within the
> Executive Board: 2 members.
Agrifirm Group, unless indicated otherwise for specific components. The previous report was
published in May 2015.
> Supervisory Board: 8 members.
The guideline used in preparing the report is the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the international
> Net revenue: € 2,385 million.
guideline for sustainability reporting. This report was prepared in accordance with the GRI G4
> Operating result
Guideline. The GRI Table with references to all reported information is available on our website
(exclusive of exceptional charges): € 48.0 million.
www.agrifirm.com under the header ‘Publications’.
> Net result: €76.2 million.
For additional information about Agrifirm’s sustainability policy, please contact Ruud Tijssens, Director
> Number of employees: 3,570
Corporate Affairs, Strategic R&D and CSR, E [email protected], T 088 488 29 00.
> Number of FTEs: 3,179
Reading Guide
Sales volume (x 1,000 tonnes)
2015
Compound feeds
4,256
Co-products2,306
Premixes & concentrates
494
Cereals, potatoes, onions and carrots
489
Fertilisers394
Organic fertilisers
Crop protection products (€ millions)
561
126.9
In this Corporate Sustainability Report, Agrifirm reports on its sustainability policy and the
accomplishments realised in this domain in 2015.
Section 1 sets out Agrifirm’s mission, corporate principles and ambitions. It provides an overview
of the main events within the Agrifirm Group in 2015, such as the Members’ Days and the Dutch
Farming Vision.
Section 2 describes Agrifirm’s sustainability policy, including the objectives set for the six pillars. In
addition, it focuses on the results of the first symposium on Agrifirm’s sustainability policy held in
June 2015 and on the introduction of sustainability labels for feed concepts and products.
Sections 3 through 8 focus on the objectives and key performance of the six sustainability policy
pillars. For each pillar, a responsible Agrifirm officer or an external partner highlights an example with
high sustainability impact.
The Appendices list Agrifirm’s KPIs relating to the organisation, the environment, terms and
conditions of employment and human rights.
In the associated protocol, Agrifirm provides clarity about the chosen methodology, the selection of
themes, and the method used to collect information and perform the necessary calculations. Agrifirm
adheres to the GRI G4 reporting guidelines.
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Preface
Last year, the spotlight in the Netherlands and beyond was
For many of our members and customers in the Netherlands, 2015
Thanks to our chain parties and stakeholders, we were able to
social organisations, research institutes, retailers and all of our other
on sustainability, and climate in particular. During the COP21
was characterised by the land-tied principles governing the dairy
further refine this policy last year. During our ‘In cooperation with’
stakeholders. At Agrifirm we want to become sustainable through
International Climate Conference held in Paris in December
farming sector and manure. The milk quota was replaced by a system
symposium that we organized on 2 June 2015, these parties openly
means of cooperation, now and in the future.
2015, government leaders made serious agreements aimed
of phosphate rights causing many farmers to run into problems. In
and transparently joined us in developing more specific sustainability
at combating climate change. In 2015, various companies
addition, the government announced stricter regulations to curtail
objectives.
promised to deter deforestation in their chains; water scarcity is
discharges of contaminants to ground and surface waters. Just as it
back on the agenda and there was a greater focus on regional
did in previous years, the pig farming sector globally experienced a
This sustainability report describes the activities that have
food systems. These developments offer opportunities for
very difficult year. We consider it our task to make a contribution to
contributed to achieving the objectives. For example, we were
Agrifirm, as frontrunner, to demonstrate how we contribute to,
the resolution of these issues and challenges with our products and
the first animal feed company in the Netherlands to introduce
for example, a lower water and CO2 footprint and sustainable
services. In spite of turbulent political and economic developments,
sustainability labels for our feed concepts and products. These
forest management with our innovative feed concepts, tailored
Agrifirm’s operating result improved significantly in 2015 in
labels support our members and customers in producing food in
advice, and initiatives such as Dutch soy and the procurement
comparison to the preceding years. The sales volume in the Dutch
a profitable and sustainable way. Furthermore, at the end of 2015,
of sustainable raw materials.
compound feed market rose by 100,000 tonnes; the net result was
we laid the groundwork for a sustainable procurement policy for
Chairman Executive Board Agrifirm Group
significantly better than in 2014 and the Member Dividend rose to
all of our major raw materials. You will be hearing a great deal more
At the same time, 2015 was an eventful year from a geopolitical
€20 million. It is a result to be proud of. But it is also a success that
about this from us in the near future. We also conducted a customer
perspective. The unrest in the Middle East, Africa and Ukraine had a
would be impossible without the success of the sector as a whole.
satisfaction survey for Agrifirm Feed as well as Agrifirm Plant. In this
direct impact on the markets in which Agrifirm operates.
survey, a large majority of customers indicated that they are satisfied.
The agricultural sector is in a continuous state of flux. Our members
This is exactly what we want to aim for and focus the attention
The personal contact with – and the expert advice of – consultants
and customers were confronted with a persistent Russian boycott, a
on with our Dutch Farming vision. The Dutch approach to food
is the key factor in this regard. Customers and members are positive
renewed manure policy and debate concerning reduced discharges
production is efficient, sustainable and highly technological, without
about the quality of our products, the ordering and delivery process,
of contaminants to water. In spite of these challenges, the sector
losing sight of society’s wishes. No better theme therefore than
and the handling of complaints. We would like to continue to be
mainly demonstrated resilience and a future-oriented approach. As
Dutch Farming, as a follow-up to our campaign ‘In cooperation
as closely involved as possible in the day-to-day operation of our
a company we achieved a positive result and helped our customers
with’. Dutch Farming demonstrates the outstanding quality of our
customers’ farms in the future as well. The continued improvement of
with innovative, sustainable concepts. We are brining our operating
livestock farmers and growers, and at the same time guides Agrifirm’s
our services consequently remains a top priority for us.
principle ‘Working towards Tomorrow’ into actual practice by
innovation and development agenda for the coming years. Our
We took major steps last year. Naturally, we were only able to do this
transforming today’s challenges into tomorrow’s market opportunities.
sustainability policy seamlessly matches the Dutch Farming vision.
together with our employees, our members, our customers, various
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Ton Loman
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2015 Highlights
Healthy Plants, Soil and Animals for Healthy People
Together with customers and members, Agrifirm works on creating a healthy soil, resistant
crops and strong animals. Agrifirm’s policy is focused on structurally using less polluting
agents, while still achieving good results.
Sustainable Raw Materials
“I see that it is becoming increasingly more important to grow high-quality products with
Sustainable production starts with the production and procurement of sustainable raw
less fertilisers and crop protection products. I wanted to see with my own eyes whether
materials. This is why, in 2015, Agrifirm, together with suppliers and key stakeholders,
the mycorrhiza fungus also has positive effects on hyacinths. As a grower of flower bulbs,
developed a policy framework for a sustainable procurement policy.
I would like to grow beautiful hyacinth bulbs in a more sustainable way.”
Arjan Hogervorst, Flower Bulb Grower with 22 ha of hyacinths in Noordwijkerhout
“I find it inspiring to see that everyone is open to the challenge of becoming more
sustainable, also at the international level. And that we are not alone in this.”
Peter Boudeling, Director Procurement, Production & Logistics, Agrifirm Feed
Sustainable Consumer Supply
Animal health and welfare are becoming increasingly more important to buyers. Agrifirm
Efficient Production and Logistics
can innovate in this area on a market-oriented basis, by working together with partners and
Agrifirm aims to structurally reduce energy use by means of efficient production and smart
customers. A good example of this is the SLOWFEED concept that Agrifirm has developed in
logistics. A key step in achieving more efficient production is to modernise production sites.
cooperation with its chain partner Plukon.
In 2015, Agrifirm Feed renewed two plants in Veghel.
“Together with the hatchery, Agrifirm and Plukon, we are responding quickly to
“The renovation is producing considerable cost and energy savings. However, the biggest
new developments. In 2009, we switched to the SLOWFEED FREE RANGE concept.
gain lies in the further improvement of the feed’s quality and the ability to even better
The animals are far more robust and did not need any antibiotics. It has made our
anticipate customer needs.”
work more enjoyable.”
Frits de Wit, Sector Production Manager Pigs, Agrifirm Feed
Erald Brilman, Livestock Farmer with 46,000 free range chicks, 60 dairy cows and 50 young cattle.
Efficient Use of Raw Materials
Our Employees: the Foundation for Success
Agrifirm invests in product innovations that help our members and customers achieve
Agrifirm’s employees are the foundation for the company’s success. Agrifirm is devoted to the
higher production with less input. This is not only good for the environment. It also improves
health and safety of its employees and visitors. Our safety policy aims to create a safe work-
returns at the farm level.
ing environment for everyone working at Agrifirm.
“In 2015, Agrifirm Exlan managed various cooperative ventures in the area of manure
“Our employees are passionate about their profession, but this must not cause us to lose
processing and mineral management. I expect that over the coming years, we will
sight of safety. This is why, in 2015, we started working on refining our safety policy. So
be supporting many more farmers by helping them achieve positive environmental and
that all of us will reach our retirement age in good health.”
business results.”
Jacques Wassenberg, Team Leader Quality Assurance, Agrifirm Plant
Gerrit Schilstra, Director Agrifirm Exlan
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Table of Contents
Preface4
Highlights
6
Table of Contents
8
1. Agrifirm, a Link to Success
10
2. Six Pillars for More Impact
14
3. Working on Sustainable Raw Materials
21
4. Efficient Production and Logistics
26
5. Efficient Use of Raw Materials
30
6. Healthy Plants, Soil and Animals for Healthy People
33
7. Contributing to a Sustainable Consumer Supply
38
8. Our employees: The foundation for Success 42
Colophon
47
Appendices48
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1. Agrifirm, a Link to Success
Koninklijke Coöperatie Agrifirm U.A. combines the strength and professionalism of approximately 17,250
Corporate Principles
Agrifirm is a committed specialist in high-quality products,
possible results. To achieve this, Agrifirm acts in accordance with
such as animal feeds, sowing seeds, fertilisers and crop protection
three leading corporate principles. These principles guide Agrifirm
products. With these products and innovative concepts and services,
in everything it does and ensure that Agrifirm optimally responds to
Agrifirm supports its customers, enabling them to achieve the best
the requirements and needs of livestock farmers and growers.
Dutch farmers in the agriculture and horticulture sectors. Agrifirm is a market leader in the Netherlands
and is globally engaged in the production and supply of products and services for feeding animals and
cultivating crops. On the basis of the breadth of its international activities, sector knowledge and innovative
strength, we have been supplying products and services that yield added value at the farm level to livestock
Passion for our Profession
Passion
for our
Profession
If there is one aspect that connects Agrifirm with customers, it would be the passion we have
for our profession. Furthermore, Agrifirm is proud of the companies in the agricultural sectors.
Agrifirm’s employees stand out on the basis of their professional knowledge and their high level
of commitment to livestock farming and cultivation tradesmanship, and they enjoy going the
farmers and growers alike since 1892.
extra mile in order to achieve the best possible service and results for their customers.
Strong Together
Mission
The world population is growing, as a result of which the demand
Agrifirm is an agricultural cooperative that operates globally, with
for food, animal feed and bio-fuels is increasing. Agricultural farmers
members in the Netherlands only. Our Mission: “Generating value for
are vitally important to the world food supply. Enterprising livestock
our members in a sustainable manner.” Agrifirm accomplishes this by:
farmers and growers are aware of this and have been anticipating
> Supporting customers by providing sustainable and profitable
social trends for years. Towards the end of the 19th century they had
products and concepts that enable livestock farmers
already established cooperatives for this purpose. To be in a stronger
and growers to achieve the best possible results.
position together and to head into the future in a better position.
> Creating growth in value for the company that is partially
To this day this is a value for our cooperative. With its cooperative
passed on to the cooperative’s members through means of a
character, Agrifirm differentiates itself in the market: we always
cooperative profit-sharing scheme (Member Dividend and
think in terms of customer-oriented solutions. The interests of our
Member Discount).
members are decisive in this respect.
The Agrifirm Group creates value for members, customers,
companies and employees through means of various subsidiaries
Always
Staying
on Top
of Things
Always Staying on Top of Things
Successful enterprise requires continuous alertness for new developments, opportunities, quality,
revenues and costs. This applies to livestock farmers and growers, and likewise to Agrifirm. This is
why the principle, always staying on top of things, applies.
Working towards Tomorrow
Working
towards
Tomorrow
Agricultural entrepreneurs not only consider the present, but, even more important, the future
as well, often across many generations. This requires vision, knowledge and expertise. Agrifirm
also looks ahead and, together with customers and chain partners, works on innovative and
sustainable solutions that enable customers to operate successfully ‘tomorrow’ as well.
and participating interests in the Netherlands and abroad. This
creates an opportunity for distributing profits to the members.
Ambition
Agrifirm wants to be known as the expert, innovative and
knowledge-driven partner that supports its members and
customers by anticipating the challenges of today and tomorrow.
Agrifirm wants to further strengthen its leadership position on the
Dutch market both in terms of turnover and perception by being a
frontrunner in terms of customer-oriented consulting and support
services. This is to result in an increase in the number of customers
(for the member companies Feed and Plant) and in higher profits
(for the non-member companies). Knowledge and innovation are
indispensable in this respect, as are well-trained employees who are
committed to their customers and to the agricultural sector.
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Organisation Chart
Members’ and Young People’s Days
Dutch Farming comprises three themes:
Agrifirm operates in four core areas: compound feed, arable farming and horticulture, co-products and specialties. A professional knowledge
The 2015 Agrifirm Members’ Days were visited by 650 enterprising
1. Smart Feeding.
& innovation cluster serves as the engine for knowledge development and product innovation. In addition, Agrifirm is active with a number of
members of the Koninklijke Coöperatie. In addition to inspiring
2. Healthy Soil, Plants and Animals.
service companies and participating interests.
workshops on a wide range of topics, the 2014 financial statements
3. Strength in the Chain.
were explained in depth. At the Agrifirm Young People's Day on 7
Members of the Koninklijke Coöperatie Agrifirm U.A.
Districts
Young People's
Council
Members Council
Board Koninklijke
Coöperatie
Agrifirm U.A.
=
=
AGM
Agrifirm Group BV
Organisation chart
Royal Agrifirm Group
Supervisory
= Board
Agrifirm Group BV
= Agrifirm
Knowledge & Innovation Cluster
AIC, NutriControl, Agrifirm Exlan, Schothorst*
Group BV
Compound Feed
Arable Farming &
Horticulture
Co-products
Specialties
Service Companies
Participating
Interests
Agrifirm Feed
Netherlands
Agrifirm Plant
Netherlands
Nuscience
Group
Agrimec (51%)
Plukon
BV Oldambt
Agrifirm Plant
Deutschland
Agrifirm
Co-products
(Bonda)
January 2015 in Apeldoorn, young farmers spoke with each other
These three themes guide Agrifirm’s innovation and development
about the theme ‘farming risks’. As a young farmer, how far are you
agenda and provide direction to our partnerships. Agrifirm,
willing to go? What is the risk profile if you want to break through
independently and in cooperation with chain partners,
your boundaries? The weather, harvest uncertainty, financial risks
develops innovative applications (knowledge, concepts and
associated with borrowing capital and investments, as well as your
recommendations) related to the three themes. Over the coming
own health; the risks faced by farmers are diverse, just like the
years, Agrifirm will be increasingly designing its R&D programmes on
discussions held during this Young People’s Day.
the basis of this vision.
Partnerships and Acquisitions
To realise its strategic objectives – to acquire more customers as a
In 2014, Agrifirm’s business strategy was further specified in concrete
means of increasing its market share – Agrifirm in 2014 initiated the
detail in the refined ‘Focus and Acceleration’ vision. In line with this
communications campaign ‘In cooperation with’. After all, growers
vision, the specialties division Nuscience acquired the Brazilian
and livestock farmers contribute to making Agrifirm’s success
company Nutrifarma; a leading supplier of premixes, concentrates,
possible. The Dutch Farming vision represents the follow-up to this
specialties, additives and services. Due to this key acquisition,
campaign and was started in June 2015.
Agrifirm’s specialties division has reinforced its position in the
strategically important Brazilian market.
Agrifirm aims to optimally support agricultural entrepreneurs and
wants to showcase the world of innovation and sustainability
Agrifirm Belgium
Agrifirm Winkel BV
Agri Retail
Agrifirm Feed
Deutschland
At the beginning of 2015, Plukon announced that it intended to look
underlying the products on retail shelves. The website www.
for new shareholders to realise its business plan. At the request of
dutchfarming.com includes striking examples of leading livestock
the new shareholders it was decided that the existing shareholders
farmers and growers who cooperate in making Dutch Farming a
would retain a minor interest in Plukon for a short period of time.
reality. In 2015, we placed advertisements in various trade journals
that featured these livestock farmers and growers.
Dutch Farming
Agrifirm
Magyarország
Agrifirm Polska
Sto Posto*
* Minority interest
Organisation Chart as at 31 December 2015
The strong position of various products, such as milk powders for baby
Naturally, Dutch Farming is consistent with Agrifirm’s sustainability
food, seed-potatoes and flower bulbs, proves that Dutch growers and
policy. In addition to the three themes focused on the farm, the
livestock farmers are performing at a top level. Agrifirm believes in
sustainability policy also includes themes that fall within Agrifirm’s
the Dutch way of farming. Due to well-structured ‘green’ education,
responsibility: sustainable raw materials, energy consumption and
the education level of agricultural entrepreneurs is high, and the
good employment practices. These themes, focused on the internal
Netherlands is known as the breeding ground for high technological
organisation, are of major importance to Agrifirm We not only want
and knowledge-intensive innovations for a sustainable and efficient
to challenge our members and customers to take steps in the area
agriculture. Furthermore, an extensive SME sector enriches the
of sustainability, we ourselves want to take responsibility in this area
agricultural business community with market-oriented developments.
as well.
In 2015, Agrifirm consisted of six divisions:
> Co-products Division: processing of high-quality by-products
> Compound Feed Division: production and sale of animal feeds
and artificially dried fodder legumes and straw products;
> Specialties Division: production of premixes, mineral mixes,
We believe in a future-proof, ground-breaking food production to
consultancy and research.
scale and size, by farmers working in harmony with the environment
from the food industry into (raw materials for) animal feeds.
protein-rich raw materials and nutritional concepts for animal feed.
> Arable Farming and Horticulture Division: production and
> Service Companies Division: technical and legal agricultural
and society. According to Agrifirm, that is the strength of Dutch
sale of sowing seeds, fertilisers, crop protection products; sale of
livestock farmers and growers. We are disseminating this in our vision
cereals, onions and carrots; equipment, consultancy and research.
> Participating Interests Division: minority interest in Plukon.
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advice, sale of agricultural consumer products.
titled Dutch Farming.
13
2. Six Pillars for Impact within the Supply Chain
By 2025, Agrifirm will have developed sustainable agricultural practices
Agrifirm invests in product innovations that
that have the ability to reduce the environmental footprint of the
help our members achieve higher production
production of animal and plant products by our customers by 15%.
with less input.
Agrifirm wants to create value for customers and members in a sustainable manner through means
of its corporate social responsibility. Increasing prosperity and a growing world population are putting
increased pressure on limited raw materials, water, land and the natural environment. Efficient
and sustainable agriculture is a prerequisite for producing sufficient and healthy food. Agrifirm’s
sustainability policy derives from its ‘Working towards Tomorrow’ operating principle.
By 2025, Agrifirm will have developed sustainable agricultural practices
Agrifirm develops products and services that
with a key focus on greening the use of crop protection products, and
reinforce the natural resistance of plants,
in which the natural resistance of animals will have been strengthened
animals and soil.
to such an extent that the use of veterinary medicines by our customers
Six pillars form the foundation for the practical elaboration of
different links - from farmer and horticulturist to retailer - coordinate
Agrifirm’s sustainability policy. These six pillars comprise all of the
their activities, it becomes possible to quickly achieve gains from
links in the chain where Agrifirm can make an impact: from growing
working more sustainably. In this respect, Agrifirm always opts for
raw materials to food on the plate. Agrifirm wants to achieve
solutions that are profitable for farmers and horticulturists.
can be reduced by a further 20% to 30%.
Contributing to a Sustainable Consumer Supply
sustainability mainly through cooperation in the supply chain. If the
By 2025, Agrifirm will be the main partner for chain parties in developing
Agrifirm is collaborating with chain partners to
and testing new chain concepts.
develop and market sustainable concepts for
Objectives for the 6 Pillars
consumers.
After monitoring its sustainability performance for a period of five years, Agrifirm formulated its strategic objectives in 2014. The
strategic objectives for each of the six pillars create focus in Agrifirm’s sustainability policy. From 2015 we have been focusing on
achieving these strategic objectives; this forms an integral part of Agrifirm’s commercial and development focus.
Our Employees: the Foundation for Success
Working on Sustainable Raw Materials
By 2020 Agrifirm will be the ‘employer of choice’ in the field of agricultural
Agrifirm creates a stimulating environment
By 2020, we will have implemented our sustainable procurement
Agrifirm processes residual flows from the
products and leadership will have visibly developed into one of the
for its employees and invests in sound terms
policy for agro raw materials on the basis of regional risk analyses.
food and bio-based industry into high-quality
company’s crucial success factors. This manifests itself in various ways
and conditions of employment, training
animal feeds. Together with suppliers, Agrifirm
within the company, for example by means of a high rate of internal
opportunities and career development.
is working on the sustainable and responsible
promotions.
cultivation and use of raw materials, such as
wheat, corn and soy.
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From Objectives to Specific Actions
the first steps have been taken in the development of a sustainable
To achieve the specified objectives, a work plan was developed in
procurement policy for all key raw materials. This multi-year process
By 2025, Agrifirm will have improved its energy efficiency by 15%.
Agrifirm aims to structurally reduce its energy
2015 for the first two pillars: ‘Sustainable Raw Materials’ and ‘Efficient
is to result in having Agrifirm, together with the suppliers of raw
The energy efficiency of production sites will have increased by 15%
consumption by means of the efficient
Production and Logistics’. This plan contains specific objectives,
materials, identify the issues in specific production areas to enable it
in comparison to 2015. As a major buyer of transportation, Agrifirm
processing of raw materials and smart logistics.
actions and measurable indicators to measure the interim results
to implement feasible and high-impact measures where necessary.
has made binding agreements with its carriers about achieving the
achieved. This is an important step in our ability to achieve Agrifirm’s
In 2016, Agrifirm will also translate the objectives for the other
reduction objectives for energy use and the emission of various
sustainability objectives. Both pillars are close to Agrifirm’s own area
four pillars into a work plan with specific actions and measurable
substances, such as particulate matter.
of responsibility. For example, in terms of sustainable raw materials,
indicators.
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Working together on Sustainability
“The symposium ‘In Cooperation with’ held on 2 June 2015, was a milestone for Agrifirm’s sustainability
policy. During the first phase we established the six pillars and the strategic objectives and we invested in
creating support, internally as well as externally. With the symposium we started up the second phase.
We published our strategic sustainability objectives and discussed them with stakeholders and chain
parties. The symposium caused us to substantively refine our policy related to sustainable raw materials,
crop protection products, biodiversity and soil life.”
Support from the Chain and Society
chain; information that normally is not linked. Quite the
“In 2015, we also made a start on translating the policy into
challenge and not only at the ICT level.
operational indicators for measuring progress in terms of the six
pillars. This involves a specific review to determine how we can
Increasing Market Demand
translate our ambitions into objectives and the steps required to
“I consider the introduction of the sustainability labels for feeds and
achieve them. We have already completed this step for procurement
concepts to the market in 2015 a good example of how we give our
and energy efficiency, and we will complete this process for the
sustainability policy substance. As the first animal feed company
Cooperation-based Sustainability
other pillars in 2016. In 2015, we conducted pilots together with our
in the Netherlands we thus support chain partners, interested
Cooperation within the chain is essential in order to make the agri
the presentations and discussions it became clear that sustainability
suppliers for three major raw materials: corn, wheat and rapeseed
livestock farmers and our consultants in making farming operations
and food sector sustainable. That was the conclusion of the first
is not just a short-lived trend, but a permanent movement in the
meal. This produced valuable information about possible realistic
sustainable. In discussions with retailers about new chain concepts
symposium on the sustainability policy organised by Agrifirm in June
market. Consumers want to know increasingly more about the origin
approaches. We consider it of great value that the new method of
I clearly see that the market demand for sustainably produced
2015. Over 80 representatives of chain parties, social and farming
of a product and are more critical in their assessment of companies
sustainable procurement of raw materials can count on support from
products is increasing. Dutch and international retailers increasingly
organisations together engaged in an open dialogue. Agrifirm’s
in the food chain. Cooperating and developing new business models
the chain and society. We therefore engaged a number of suppliers,
often opt for more specific sustainability criteria as part of their
sustainability objectives and approach, as well as the opportunities
is then the only way to create sustainable added value.
social organisations and chain partners, such as Solidaridad, IUCN
procurement process. Sustainability is now a real priority, and that is
and pitfalls of sustainable chains, were topics on the agenda. From
Nederland, Rainforest Alliance, FrieslandCampina, Unilever and an
true within Agrifirm as well. For each edition of our newsletter MVO-
expert from one of our suppliers with a great deal of experience in
Actueel (CSR News) we have more than enough good examples
trading and processing agro commodities, in a dialogue.
that prove Agrifirm is fully devoting its efforts to sustainable and
innovative solutions.”
Greening
We also took key steps for the other pillars in 2015. For example,
Ruud Tijssens
we are devoting large efforts to greening crop protection
Director Corporate Affairs, R&D and CSR
products by discussing ambitions and practices with various
parties, such as growers, researchers and social organisations.
There is a great deal of debate about the exact definition of
green crop protection products. Does it concern raw materials
that are natural, identical to natural raw materials, or rather
crop protection products with a low risk of affecting nontargeted organisms? We are also working on integrating
the environmental footprint of feeds and concepts into our
consulting tools. These tools are currently optimised for feed
efficiency and animal health. To integrate the environmental
footprint, we require information from throughout the entire
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Symposium ‘Helping make Sustainable Chains a Reality’
“Supplying consumers directly is an opportunity for growers and Agrifirm.
Farmers and growers need a bit of support in marketing their sustainable
products. Agrifirm has a lot of investment strength and can support its
members and customers in this respect.”
Sijas Akkerman (Nature & the Environment)
“Whereas once you had to know your customers in order to do business,
now you have to know about the world to properly serve your customers.”
Chris Kalden, former Secretary General, Ministry of Agriculture,
Nature Management and Food Quality
“Sustainability is part of our ‘licence to operate’. More and more
consumers want to know from where a product originates and how
it is produced. In addition, we sell increasingly more organic products,
for example, and anticipate the consumer’s demands.”
Hugo Byrnes (Ahold)
“For me, health, wellbeing and sustainability are the core of doing
business. These three sometimes run counter to each other, but we
always look for optimal balance.”
Gerald Deetman (Pig Farmer)
“Agriculture has become increasingly more efficient over the past 60 years.
The key question is whether we will be able to manage in the future with
the further optimisation of existing chains. To explore new avenues it is
important for companies to free up funds to experiment with new
business models.”
Jan Jonker, Professor of Sustainable Entrepreneurship at
Radboud University
17
Sustainability Labels for Feed Concepts and Products
TopStart® Sustainability Labels*
In 2015, Agrifirm Feed was the first animal feed company to introduce
sustainability labels for concepts and products. The labels provide
livestock farmers with specific information about the sustainability
performance of the feed concepts. These labels support members
and customers in producing food in a profitable and sustainable way.
Five Labels
There are five sustainability themes that are used as a basis for
labelling concepts and products:
> Mineral efficiency: the nitrogen and phosphate efficiency of
the feed concept;
> Animal health: qualitative information about the contribution
of the feed concept to the gastrointestinal health of animals;
> Climate: greenhouse gas emissions per kg of end product
Mineral
efficiency
Animal
health
Climate
Recycling
Sustainability
of Raw Materials
N and P efficiency
Health Effects
Carbon Footprint
Co-products
Land Use
TopStart® improves feed
efficiency. Given the same
protein concentration in the
rations, this also translates into
higher N efficiency.
TopStart® contributes to animal
health through means of a
relatively high Buffer-Acid
Balance.
The volume of greenhouse gas
emissions that are released to
produce 1 kg of milk declines
due to fewer methane emissions
because of a shift from
fermentation in the rumen to
digestion in the intestine.
The share of co-products rises
significantly due to the
increased use of beet pulp and
soy husks in TopStart® pellets.
The land use (m2) per kg of milk
increases due to an increase in
feed concentrates in TopStart®.
(milk, meat and eggs);
> Recycling: percentage co-products used for the
feed concept;
> Sustainability of raw materials: how much land is required for the cultivation of the agro raw materials incorporated into the
feed concept.
These sustainability themes are consistent with the social challenges
Increase
Reduction
Increase
Increase
11,6%
9,2%
N efficiëntie
P efficiëntie
5,8%
4,1%
1,3%
Carbon Footprint
Co-products
Land Use
Reduction
N efficiency
P efficiency
faced by the livestock farming sector, such as improving phosphate
efficiency. A feed concept or product can have one or more
sustainability labels. The sustainability information supplements the
usual information on the use and yield of the feed concepts.
*The labels for products and/ or concepts of Agrifirm Feed NL are normally not communicated in brochures or leaflets for the foreign market.
Feed concepts with sustainability labels are:
> Mixed Feeding 2.0, OPFOK24, 100-day approach and
TopStart® for the cattle farming sector;
‘Sustainability labels help make farming operations sustainable’
> SOLIQ and VIGOR for the laying hen poultry farming sector;
“Sustainable production is a prerequisite for producing for the international food market. Consumers and companies that purchase our
> Line-up for the broiler farming sector.
dairy products not only expect guaranteed quality, they also expect them to be sustainably produced. Feed plays an important role in all
aspects of our Foqus Planet Programme, including animal health, biodiversity or the climate footprint. Phosphate is a good example. The
Better utilisation of phosphate room and reduction in
feed industry is at the basis of the animal production chain.
greenhouse gas emissions
Just like any other chain, the feed industry must make a contribution to lowering phosphate emissions so that
TopStart® is a good example of a new feed concept with a sustainability
we continue to meet our agreements with the government. A reduced concentration of phosphate in feed and
label. This start-up strategy enables cows to absorb much more energy
a better utilisation is an important challenge for our sector, followed by reducing the emission of greenhouse
in the first crucial 60 days of lactation. Through smart feeding, cows start
gases and maintaining biodiversity. Dairy farmers are looking for ways to make their farm sustainable. The
up more easily, produce more milk and remain in optimal condition.
sustainability labels help dairy farmers in this respect.”
This helps dairy farmers to make more efficient use of the phosphate
room on their farms. Trials show that TopStart® can improve the climate
Jaap Petraeus, Manager Corporate Sustainability FrieslandCampina
footprint by 5.8% and nitrogen efficiency by 11.6%.
18
Agrifirm
19
New and Remarkable Partnerships in 2015
In 2015, Agrifirm Feed and Vitens signed a partnership agreement
at the international Aquatech trade exhibition. Agrifirm Feed will
investigate whether the lime pellets produced by Vitens as a residual
product from its drinking water production can be used as laying
hen poultry feed. If the findings of the trials are positive, Agrifirm
Feed will use the Vitens pellets for its laying hen poultry feed.
Agrifirm Feed is also working on innovative animal feeds with
Nutrifeed, a subsidiary of FrieslandCampina Ingredients. In 2015, both
parties introduced Kalvolac Unlimited, a milk powder specifically
developed for unlimited milk provision. The starting point was to
help dairy farmers produce sustainably with fewer young animals.
In 2015, the Agrifirm Innovation Center (AIC) was the only foreign
partner to join the Foods of Norway consortium. In this consortium,
Norwegian companies and universities are working together with
the Norwegian government to improve the utilisation of vegetable
protein in animal feed from a chain perspective. AIC, together with
3. Working on Sustainable Raw Materials
other partners, is developing innovations in the area of protein
utilisation and alternative protein raw materials. The entry of AIC
to Foods of Norway is consistent with Agrifirm’s development of a
The demand for food will increase over the coming decades. This increases the pressure on limited raw
sustainable raw materials policy.
materials, water and the natural environment. We want to encourage our members and customers to
respond to the current and future demand for food in a sustainable
way. Sustainable production starts
Agrifirm’s
responsible
procurement
ApproAch
at the front-end of the chain, with the purchase of sustainable
raw materials.
Agrifirm encourages
growing and using sustainable raw materials. We also incorporate
co-products
from
the food industry
Towards a complete,
objective
and verifiable
approachraw
for the
responsible procurement
into animal feeds, and we are committed to buying sustainable
materials.
of significant raw materials for feed.
Our Objectives
By 2020, Agrifirm aims to buy all major raw materials required for
animal feed, including wheat, corn and soy, in accordance with a
sustainable procurement policy. This will be based on regional risk
analyses in which we chart the specific environmental and social
risks relating to major raw materials produced in the production
region, such as discrimination against certain ethnic minorities in
the Baltic States. These regional risk analyses also contain an action
plan for implementing our sustainable procurement policy. For the
time being, the sustainable procurement policy is limited to Agrifirm
Feed’s procurement in the Netherlands. Over the coming years this
will be expanded to include Agrifirm branches that are major buyers
Version 1.1 01-16
of agro raw materials or other agricultural raw materials.
20
Agrifirm
link to success
21
Sustainable
Procurement Policy
‘Proactively assuming responsibility for sustainability’
Greening of Crop
Protection
‘Accelerated Greening’
“Sustainable procurement is an issue for all players in the food chain. Suppliers, retailers and
Up until now, Agrifirm’s
processing companies are all working on making their key raw materials sustainable. Agrifirm is
Agrifirm Plant is fully focused on
we therefore adjusted our organisation to improve the sharing and application of knowledge. Our
procurement policy focused
an important link in the chain. We do not want to adopt a wait and see attitude; instead we want
the greening of crop protection
procurement policy for crop protection products furthermore has been more specifically geared
on sustainable palm oil and
to assume our responsibility. In recent years, a great deal of energy has gone into initiatives aimed
products. As a market leader,
towards sustainability criteria. We aim to increase our procurement from companies that are
soy products. To secure the
at sustainable soy and palm oil. Agrifirm is now taking the next step in its sustainable procurement
Agrifirm Plant is a frontrunner
frontrunners in terms of the greening of crop protection products. Low-risk products of a natural
sustainable procurement
policy by proactively tackling all of Agrifirm Feed’s major raw materials.
when it comes to the greening
origin are a good example of this.
of all key raw materials, in
“We want to further increase our head start in the field of greening crop protection products. In 2015,
of crop protection products.
2015, Agrifirm, together with
In 2015, Agrifirm spoke with suppliers, knowledge institutes and social organisations about our
Agrifirm Plant’s cultivation spe-
From the perspective of the grower, the greening of crop protection products starts off with an
suppliers and key stakeholders,
sustainable procurement policy framework. The subject of these discussions was the basic principles
cialists are involved in working
integrated approach in which you first and foremost avoid the use of environmentally harmful
developed a policy framework
of the regional risk analyses. We use theses analyses to identify the specific risks associated with
on sustainability processes on
agents whenever possible. When crop protection products are nevertheless required, it is important
for a sustainable procurement
production in a certain region. We also discussed the measures Agrifirm can take when certain
a daily basis. The objective is to
to use them effectively. Developments in the field of precision agriculture are making a contribution
policy. Through means of
risks manifest themselves in a certain region. In 2015, we conducted regional risk analyses for three
achieve more with less environ-
to this. For example, in the future it will be possible to use specialised spraying heads to accurately
discussions with chain parties,
of the key raw materials for animal feed - corn, wheat and rapeseed meal - in order to determine
mentally harmful products and
apply the right dose down to the square centimetre. That also reduces the risk of having crop
social organisations and
our priority in relation to social and environment-related issues. Our discussions with stakeholders
through means of the efficient
protection products end up in surface waters. A farm discharge scan has been developed together
experts, Agrifirm aims to work
provided us with valuable insights for this purpose.
use of crop protection products
with the Dutch Federation of Agricultural and Horticultural Organizations (LTO), the water boards,
and fertilisers. An integrated
Agrodis and Nefyto to provide additional support to growers in this area. The scan helps growers
on sustainable raw materials
in a transparent way. Where
In 2016, we will continue discussions with our suppliers, buyers and stakeholders concerning the
control approach starts off
identify the risk of discharge of crop protection products from their
possible we do this together
key areas for attention in certain production regions. Coming two years, we aim to have completed
by making a crop protection
farm. The application of crop protection products in accordance with
with suppliers.
discussions with suppliers for at least 80 percent of the volume of key raw materials. I find it
product plan that is primarily
current laws and regulations naturally forms part of our cultivation
inspiring to see that everyone is open to the challenge of becoming
focused on prevention. Decision
recommendations. We also translate new knowledge about precision
sustainable, even at the international level. And that we are not alone
support systems also assist
agriculture and Big Data into practical cultivation recommendations.”
in this.”
growers in this respect. Precision
agriculture, whereby the right
André Groot Nibbelink
Peter Boudeling
product volume is applied at
Product Manager, Crop protection, Agrifirm Plant
Director Procurement, Production & Logistics, Agrifirm Feed
the right place, is an important
greening method.
22
Agrifirm
23
Insects, Feed of the Future
Enhancing Residual Flows
Reuse of Residual Products from the Food Industry
Insects make up the largest living biomass on earth and efficiently
Animal feeds based on co-products from residual flows are
48.4 per cent of all dry raw materials that Agrifirm processes into
convert low-quality organic material into high-quality nutrients, such
sustainable and offer market opportunities. For example, in 2015, we
livestock feed consists of residual products that originate from the
as proteins, fats and micro-nutrients. Insects are a perfect fit for a
transformed approximately 3,000 tonnes of vinasse, a co-product
food industry. These co-products are left over from the production
sustainable food supply. Agrifirm is actively involved in researching
from the sugar industry, into a fertiliser for the organic agriculture
of, for example, bread, cookies, margarine, beer and sugar. Aside
opportunities for processing insects or parts thereof into animal
sector. Proti+, a protein-rich cattle product and Gluco+, an energy-
from this, food producers are faced with a large number of residual
feeds. Living insects also have the potential for being used as a raw
rich cattle product are two other striking examples. Following their
batches. These residual products, provided they are mixed to create a
material in animal production. In 2015, the first trial in which laying
introduction phase, Proti+ and Gluco+ are clearly in a growth phase.
well-balanced composition, are extremely well suited as raw material
hens were fed living larvae was successfully completed. Together
The sale of both cattle mixtures experienced strong growth in 2015.
for animal feeds. In 2015, more co-products were used as a raw material
with EKOZ Pluimvee partnership in Schore (Province of Zeeland)
The volume sold more than doubled in a period of one year. Proti+
for animal feed for dairy cattle and pigs than in the previous year.
and the insect company Protix, Agrifirm Feed has tested the effect
and Gluco+ both are very tasty milk yield stimulating products that
of a combination of 80 per cent kernel feed and 20 per cent living
are available throughout the year. The mixtures are also interesting to
Percentage per Animal Type
larvae on a trial group of several hundred Bovans Brown free range
dairy farmers from a pricing perspective.
2015
2014
59.9
Dairy cattle
64.8
hens. The initial results are positive. Egg production is higher, feed
Pigs
39.637.5
conversion is better and the loss percentage lower. The trial at the
Laying hens
31.6
company will be further expanded in 2016.
Broilers
40.943.3
34.6
Sustainable Soy and Palm Oil
In recent years, Agrifirm has invested a great deal of energy into
closing regional cycles and reducing feed miles. In 2015, some 50
initiatives aimed at sustainable soy and palm oil. For example, we
farmers grew a total of 175 hectares of soy. The best 25% of these
endorse the Nevedi convenant for the Dutch market that refers to
growers harvested an average of 3.2 tonnes per hectare and with
the FEFAC Guidelines for responsible produced soy. In 2015, the
a higher protein content than the year before. Agrifirm Plant looks
Federation of European Compound Feed Manufacturers (FEFAC)
after the sale of the Dutch soy via a special soy pool. In addition, trials
published its benchmark standard. This benchmark compares
were conducted on a small scale with several new varieties. Agrifirm
different standards for sustainable soy on the basis of the FEFAC Soy
Plant believes there are good prospects for the cultivation of these
Sourcing Guidelines. Ruud Tijssens, Agrifirm’s Director Corporate
new varieties, because the yield as well as the protein content is
Affairs, R&D and CSR, has played an active role in the development of
higher than that of current varieties. This is a positive development,
the FEFAC benchmark.
because the market for human consumption can be better served
with a higher protein content.
In 2015, Agrifirm bought RTRS credits for 240,000 tonnes of
sustainable soy. With this quantity, Agrifirm meets the market’s
demand for RTRS certified soy. Agrifirm also covered the volume of
soy that does not fall under market agreements by purchasing soy
that is produced according to standards that are accepted within
the FEFAC Sourcing Guidelines and the Nevedi Convanant. In 2015,
the Dutch animal feed sector collectively and responsibly procured
the volume of palm oil products required for the Dutch market with
Green Palm certificates.
Soy cultivation in north western Europe offers benefits, such as
24
Agrifirm
25
Our Objectives
Agrifirm aims for a structural decrease in energy consumption. By 2025, Agrifirm will have improved its energy efficiency by 15%. The energy
Agrifirm Feed
Belgium
Poland
Germany
Hungary
NutriNuscience Control
Opeinde
Oldambt
Veghel
Baasrode
Drongen
Bocs
Gyor
Kaba
Neuss
Topola
Szamotuly
Margonin
Grobbendonk
Zwolle
Wanssum
environmental footprint.
Veghel
of products and feedstuffs. Investing in efficient production and logistics enables Agrifirm to decrease its
Oss
an environmental impact, which is a factor in climate change. Also, plants use energy for the production
Meppel
contributes to the emission of greenhouse gases and particulate matter, among other things. This has
160
140
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
Emmen
Efficient processing of raw materials and smart logistics are high priorities for Agrifirm. Agrifirm’s logistics
2015 Energy Efficiency in Comparison to Reference Year
Drachten
4. Efficient Production and Logistics
Oldambt
efficiency of production sites will have increased by 15% in comparison to 2015. As a major buyer of transportation, Agrifirm has made
binding agreements with its carriers about achieving the reduction objectives for energy use and the emission of various substances, such as
particulate matter.
Energy Efficiency
EEI of the Meppel and Wanssum production sites dropped in 2015
Since 2013, Agrifirm has calculated the EEI (Energy Efficiency
because the capacity of these plants was not fully utilised. Because
Index) for most plants. This enables Agrifirm to identify the energy
the plant in Zwolle produces high-quality Air Line® pellets, the EEI
consumption by product unit at key production sites. The index
of this production site dropped. Air Line® feeds result in better feed
indicates the energy efficiency in comparison to the 2010 reference
utilisation on the farm. Due to the closure of the plant in Emmen,
year. For Agrifirm Feed, the reference year is 2011, as this was
there are no EEI results for this production site.
Renovation of the Veghel
Production Site
‘Gain in quality through means of smarter operations’
the first year Agrifirm measured the EEI of production sites. By
“Compared to the current state of affairs of technology the existing equipment in the plants in
annually repeating this survey, the energy efficiency trend at each
At the German production site in Neuss, the EEI declined because
A key step in achieving
Veghel is due for replacement. Some press, milling and mixing lines are over thirty years old. In the
site becomes evident and this provides Agrifirm with an accurate
since mid-2015, gas instead of oil was used for heating steam. In
more efficient production
near future, the plants would no longer meet various laws and regulations such as the Working
impression of the impact of implemented reduction measures.
addition, an investment in pallet quality, increased production of
is the modernisation of the
Conditions Act (Arbowet), ATEX and government regulations concerning odour, noise and dust. We
Agrifirm invests in reduction measures to improve the EEI of
cattle feeds and a defect in the production system resulted in an
production site for pig feed
first started planning for the renovation in 2012.
production sites. In the past few years, we made progress. The goal is
EEI reduction. The factories of Nuscience Drongen and Nuscience
to make further EEI improvements over the coming years. Increasing
Baasrode are integated with each other due to the building of the
in Veghel. Agrifirm Feed is
Our Objectives
investing
€28 million in fully
efficiency
of the production
During the renovation we will energy
be replacing
the machines
in the plantsites.
withFurthermore,
machines of aAgrifirm
much
the share of renewable energy is a performance indicator for Agrifirm
new Nuscience factory in Drongen in 2016.’ The EEI of the factory
Agrifirm aimsproduction
for a structural decrease in energy
consumption.
By
is entering
intosmarter
bindingplacement
agreements
withand
its carriers
onwe
reducing
higher
capacity. Through
means
of the much
of silos
machines,
will
modernising
that we monitor on a yearly basis. Reducing the impact of our energy
of Drongen is unusual high due to inefficient use of energy as a
2025, Agrifirm
improved
bythe
15 internal
percenttransport ofenergy
consumption
emissions
duerenovation
to transport.
reduce
raw materials
within and
the plant.
After the
we will only
facilities
in twohas
plants.
The its energy efficiency
consumption is not a strategic objective, but simply a performance
result of the extra energy use that was needed for the construction
comparedoftothe
2015.
For the branches, the focus
is on
improving
the
need
7 hammer
mills
instead of the current 24. One of the sites will exclusively produce feed for
objective
investment
indicator that we monitor each year.
of the new production location. The EEI of the Baasrode (BE) plant
is the further improvement
piglets and lactating sows, while the other site will exclusively produce feed for fattening pigs and
of feed quality and better
pregnant sows.
efficiency, including a reduction
in energy consumption.
26
Agrifirm
decreased due to the phase-out of production at this site. Because
The EEI of Agrifirm Feed’s Drachten production site has improved
of renovations and investments we expect that energy consumption
due to the investment in a new milling and mixing line, a new press
will significantly decline and that efficiency will improve in 2016.
The renovation will result in considerable cost and energy savings.
and the improved utilisation of the plant’s capacity. Veghel too
The EEI in the Hungarian plants in Kaba and Györ improved. The
However, the biggest gain lies in the further improvement of the feed’s
was the subject of a high level of investment and the EEI here also
significant improvement in Kaba (compared to an EEI of 110 in 2014)
quality and the ability to even better anticipate customer needs.”
improved. The investments in Veghel were made at the end of 2015.
is due to a Lean Six Sigma (Business Excellence) project that resulted
We therefore expect the EEI to further improve in 2016 and at the
in optimised production. The improved EEI in the Polish factory is
Frits de Wit
beginning of 2017. By investing in the plant in Oss we expect the EEI
explained by the modernisation of the production line and the use
Sector Production Manager Pigs, Agrifirm Feed
of this production site to improve over the coming years as well. The
of more energy-efficient machines.
27
Agrifirm Transport Energy Consumption
Agrifirm 2015 Energy Consumption
Energy consumption of the companies in the Agrifirm Group last
Electricity consumption (kWh) rose because production in the
Agrifirm wants to as much as possible optimise its transport
efficient transport of fertilisers, as a result of which the load factor
year amounted to:
Agrifirm Feed Netherlands plants in Zwolle and Drachten increased.
movements as a means of achieving financial and environmental
has since risen to 98%. Naturally, we continue to provide services as
Nuscience also consumed more energy by switching over to the
gains and to increase its operating efficiency. Agrifirm Plant works
‘ordered today - delivered today’ and ‘3-hour emergency delivery’ for
new plant in Drongen (BE). This caused three production sites to be
together with various main carriers for the transport of fertilisers,
situations such as unexpected weather conditions, planning issues or
temporarily used for the same production; the new and old plants in
cereals, sowing seeds, crop protection products and auxiliary farming
estimating errors. In such situations, the optimal combination of trips
Drongen and the plant in Baasrode (BE).
20152014
Gas (m )
13,248,91712,888,053
3
Gas (l)
21,288
329,836
163,237,467
154,468,567
materials (such as bulb nets and agricultural film). Agrifirm Plant
continues to be a key factor, but the timely delivery of the order then
Coal (tonnes)
12,873,450
13,631
has made agreements with the main carriers of mixed cargo about
becomes the main priority.
Heating oil (l)
481,957
639,908
making efficiency improvements. Furthermore, Imperial (formerly
Diesel oil (l)
724,065
507,062
Van den Anker), a carrier of crop protection products, each month
In terms of volume, cereals are the most important transport flow.
2,800
20,518
reports its carbon footprint per volume transported.
The introduction of the ‘from-the-farm’ concept means that the
0
0
1.85%
2.56%
Electricity (kWh)
Petrol (l)
AdBlue (l)
Percentage renewable energy
grower no longer needs to concern himself about transportation
Renewable Energy by Site
Agrifirm’s scheduling also focuses on the efficient layout of routes,
and that this responsibility has shifted to Agrifirm With the launch
thus avoiding unnecessary mileage, while the customer receives
of the cereals app, a grower can now also use his smartphone to
his orders well on time. For example, Agrifirm Plant uses discounts
communicate on a timely basis what and how much he is going to
to encourage growers to order their product well in advance. The
supply, enabling Agrifirm Plant to create a transport schedule with
internal Business Excellence project continued to focus on the more
the highest possible level of efficiency.
120%
100%
80%
60%
40%
20%
2010
2011
2012
Agrifirm Winkel BV
NutriControl BV
Agrifirm Exlan
BV Oldambt
Abemec BV
Agrifirm Plant
Feed Belgium
Agrifirm Co-products
Agrifirm Hungary
Agrifirm Polska
Agrifirm Deutschland
Nuscience NV
Agrifirm Feed BV
Double Efficiency in New Drongen Plant
Agrifirm Group
0%
In October 2015, the Nuscience Group opened a brand new,
hyper-modern production site in Drongen near Gent in
Belgium. The new production site affected efficiency in more
ways than one. First, the new plant has doubled production
capacity to over 10,000 tonnes per month as planned. Second,
2013
2014
the new plant replaces two existing production sites. Producing
2015
the full Nuscience Belgium product portfolio at a single site,
has significantly improved internal logistics. The new plant
CO2 Emissions
contains the most modern automation and process systems.
Based on its energy consumption, Agrifirm also calculated its
This enables Nuscience Belgium to quickly and efficiently
CO2 emissions (Organisational Environmental Footprint) in 2015.
anticipate market demand and technological innovations in the
The results of the CO2 emissions are based on the
production of ingredients and premixes.
emission factors published by Stimular (on the basis of CE
Delf 2010) and the Climate Neutral Group (on the basis of NL
Agency, 2012 CO2 Performance Ladder).
In 2015, our emissions amounted to:
CO2 emissions from direct energy: 57,624,572 kg CO2 equivalent;
CO2 emissions from indirect energy: 81,296,211 kg CO2 equivalent.
28
Agrifirm
29
5. Efficient Use of Raw Materials
Doing more with less is the cornerstone of our sustainability policy. Agrifirm aims to be a leader in
Phosphate Reduction
caused by an increase in the use of phosphate-rich co-products from
Agrifirm Feed is focusing on reducing phosphates in animal feed.
the food industry. These co-products often have high phosphorus
In 2015, we achieved a reduction of 758,529 kg of phosphate in
content that is not always bio-available to the animals and limits
comparison to the 2009 reference year.
phosphate reductions.
Reducing Phosphate in Animal Feed
Zero Stable Emissions
this area by doing research into product innovations that help our members and customers achieve
higher production levels with less feed, fertilisers or crop protection agents. This is not only good for the
environment. It also improves returns at the farm level.
To protect public health and to combat any inconvenience caused
Phosphate Reduction (kg)
2015
2014
by odours and noise, the livestock farming sector has already been
Cattle
878,190615,322
implementing various measures. Agrifirm Exlan is currently working
Pigs
-119,661295,110
together with Grontmij and InnovatieNetwerk on the development
of the ZERO-stal®. This is a new livestock farming system that reduces
In 2015, Agrifirm reduced the amount of phosphate in cattle feed by
all emissions from substances such as ammonia, odours and particu-
Our Objectives
using fewer phosphate-rich raw materials in the feed. The phospho-
late matter to zero. Furthermore, any pathogens no longer have the
By 2025, Agrifirm will have developed sustainable agricultural practices that have the ability to reduce the environmental footprint of the
rous - raw protein ratio (P/RP Ratio) declined to 2.36% in comparison
chance of reaching the outside atmosphere. The interior climate of this
production of animal and plant products by our customers by 15%. For instance, Agrifirm actively encourages manure processing so that the
to 2014. As such we stayed below the 2.5% standard as agreed in
zero-emission stable also improves, with a better work environment for
valuable components in organic manure are put to optimal use.
the Nevedi covenant. In 2015, Agrifirm realised lower phosphate
employees and healthier livestock as a result. This increases production
reductions in pig feeds. This drop in the reduction of phosphate was
and results in better social acceptance of the livestock farming sector.
Phosphate, from
Problem
to Solution
Integral Mineral Efficiency Farming Advice
Solutions for the Improved Utilisation of Phosphate Room
“The manure and mineral legislation is becoming increasingly complex. Agricultural entrepreneurs are
“Our members and customers want to achieve maximum performance subject to the conditions imposed by government. The effective use of the
expected to increasingly focus on farm-specific mineral efficiency. Agrifirm Exlan therefore offers its
phosphate room is of major importance. To support farmers in this respect, Agrifirm Feed provides nP feeds. These feeds contain 25 per cent less
Phosphate is a key component
members and customers the Mineraal Optimaal package. In this package, we combine expert advice
phosphate than regular feeds, and yet a high ratio of usable phosphate. Cattle is better able to absorb this type of phosphate from the feed. This way
of animal and plant food.
with support services, such as the calculation of the BEX (farm-specific excretion), the preparation of
you avoid having non-usable phosphate end up on your farm. Naturally, the nP feeds do not reduce the results produced on the farm. The almost 500
There is no alternative.
fertilising plans and the completion of the Cycle Management Guide. On the basis of these services and
dairy farmers making use of the nP feeds indicate that animal health and milk production are staying up to par.”
Agriculture uses phosphate
advisory meetings at the kitchen table on the farm, the farmer can take timely measures to improve
from raw phosphate in
efficiency and consequently increase the operating result.
An excess of phosphate
Through close cooperation among Agrifirm Exlan’s and Agrifirm Feed’s consultants we supply the farmer
harms the environment.
with true integral farming advice. And with success: more than 2,500 livestock farmers made use of Mineraal
Furthermore the stocks of
Optimaal in 2015. We prepared a Cycle Management Guide for more than 900 farmers. A more efficient use
raw phosphate are becoming
of phosphate than the norm provides livestock farmers with additional room for the production of milk.
scarce over time. Phosphate
Phosphorous Sales Volume per Period
2013
sales volume in tonnes
animal feed and fertilisers.
2014
2015
P1
P2
P3
P4
P5
P6
P7
P8
P9
P10
P11
P12
is a finite raw material: once
In 2015, Agrifirm Exlan also provided guidance to various joint ventures among livestock farmers and arable
depleted it’s gone. Agrifirm
farmers. Generally this concerns farmers who want to exchange manure and soil, as well as livestock farmers
therefore focuses on reducing
who jointly want to develop a manure processing installation. I expect that over the coming years, we will be
“The Mineraal Optimaal package that we offer together with Agrifirm Exlan is another good example. By means of expert knowledge and advice, a
phosphates in animal feed
providing guidance and support to many more farmers to enable them to further improve environmental
farmer can aim for a more efficient cycle. When the farmer does this properly, it is possible to perform optimally within production limits. Every year we
and on its efficient use and
and farm performance. It is good to see that we, as the Dutch agricultural sector,
research how we can use valuable raw materials, such as phosphate, more efficiently. A professional advisory arm, such as
re-use. That not only benefits
are putting our best foot forward and are genuinely making every effort to make
Agrifirm Exlan, is really indispensable. This way we stand out in the market and we help our members and customers take
the environment, but the
agriculture more sustainable.”
steps to close the cycle.”
members and customers
Gerrit Schilstra
Jan Kamphof
as well.
Director, Agrifirm Exlan
Commercial Director, Agrifirm Feed
operating result of our
30
Agrifirm
31
Organic Fertilisers
there was a significant increase in availability due to the strong
The sales volume of organic fertilisers for the Dutch market as a
growth of the dairy farming sector. Because dairy farmers and arable
whole increased in 2015 and Agrifirm was no exception in this
farmers in the northern part of the country now more often directly
respect. The providers of organic fertilisers strongly anticipated the
exchange organic fertilisers as well, Agrifirm was not anywhere nearly
need to make maximum use of the limited phosphate room available
as often required to act as intermediary. This explains the decrease in
to arable farmers. Naturally, the offer of liquid organic fertilisers also
the sales volume of liquid organic fertilisers in 2015. The sales volume
increased significantly throughout the country. Particularly in the
of compost increased as the result of a sales promotion.
6. Healthy Plants, Soil and Animals for
Healthy People
Healthy, resistant plants and animals need fewer supporting substances such as crop protection products
northern part of the country where previously there was a shortage,
and veterinary medicines. Agrifirm’s policy is focused on structurally using less agents of this nature, while still
achieving good results. This way we are also anticipating stricter government regulations and social pressure
Organic Fertilisers
600,000
to use fewer such agents. Together with customers and members, Agrifirm works on creating a healthy soil,
500,000
resistant crops and strong animals that at the same time form the basis for a profitable farming operation.
400,000
300,000
200,000
Our Objectives
100,000
By 2025, Agrifirm will have developed sustainable agricultural practices with a key focus on greening the use of crop protection products, and
0
2008
2009
Liquid (t)
2010
2011
Stackable (t)
2012
Compost (t)
2013
2014
2015
Organic Fertilisers
Big Data and Precision Agriculture
use the Veris soil scan to precisely chart a plot’s soil characteristics.
Innovative and sustainable agriculture is impossible without data
Agrifirm Plant uses this information to develop task maps that can be
analysis. Increasingly more arable farmers and growers are making
used by growers to location-specifically apply fertilisers. The scan can
use of GPS-driven machines that enable them to collect accurate,
now also be used for clay soils. By using the NemaDecide Geo tool,
location-specific data about soil conditions, for example. This enables
we also provide growers with location-specific management advice
agricultural entrepreneurs to more specifically apply fertilisers and
about harmful nematodes. By linking the readings of a soil sample
the right quantity of crop protection products. This reduces the
to geographical coordinates, a grower can immediately prepare
environmental impact, while returns improve due to reduced costs,
location-specific control recommendations via the Akkerweb
and more and better yields.
platform.
Agrifirm Plant supports growers with various tailor-made tools for
In 2015, we launched the eBee drone together with three agricultural
improving efficiency and returns. Together with Agrometius we
contractors who carry out the flights. The agricultural drone creates
in which the natural resistance of animals has been strengthened to such an extent that the use of veterinary medicines by our customers can
be reduced by a further 20% to 30%.
crop maps that at a single glance reflect the condition of a plot down
to a 10 x 10 cm piece of land. Agrifirm Plant next translates the scan
maps in combination with the crop and soil analyses into ready-made
advice in consultation with the grower. In 2015, modules for fertilising,
crop protection and precision agriculture were developed. These
modules run on the Akkerweb platform. This is an initiative of Agrifirm
Plant and the Wageningen University Research Centre (WUR). The
platform was elaborately tested in actual practice by members and
customers and has been freely accessible since last year.
32
Agrifirm
33
VIGOR for Good Intestinal Health
Biodiversity
VIGOR has a positive effect on the intestinal health of laying hens
and stimulates digestion and feed utilisation. Agrifirm Feed is
The Biodiversity Earnings Model
investigating whether VIGOR can be even further improved to
Farmers and growers make their living from the natural environment.
prevent intestinal problems among laying hens. This is a relevant
They play an important role in preserving biodiversity. As a
improvement, because debeaking will be prohibited in the
cooperative organisation Agrifirm serves the interests of farmers
Netherlands starting in 2018. The prohibition on debeaking increases
and growers. We therefore are fully dedicated to sharing knowledge
the risk of feather pecking whereby laying hens harm themselves
about biodiversity, especially at a level where this also benefits the
and each other. Intestinal irritation causes stress among laying hens
earnings model of agricultural entrepreneurs.
and are an important cause of feather pecking. To prevent this,
Agrifirm Feed in cooperation with Feed4Foodure also invests in the
Four Levels
development of feed that prevents intestinal problems
We make a distinction between four levels in terms of increasing the
in poultry.
biodiversity of agricultural areas. The first two levels have a positive
Mycorrhiza for a Healthy
Soil Balance
Improved Resistance
“The mycorrhiza fungus grows inside and around the roots of crops and supplies them
effect on the farmer’s or grower’s financial results, now or in the near
Soil with a variety of soil life is in balance
with water and nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphate, potassium and magnesium. The
future. For example, the use of mycorrhiza fungi has a proven positive
and healthy. Fungi, bacteria and organisms
crop in turn supplies the sugars it produces to the fungus. The root system furthermore
effect on soil life and soil structure. Measures on this first level are
such as rain worms enrich the soil and
develops better when we add mycorrhiza fungi to the crops. This improves the crops’
currently already resulting in increased biodiversity and in the increased
contribute to vital crops. A good example of
resistance, making them better able to ward off diseases. The initial results show that
productivity of farmers and growers. Knowledge about disease control
this is the symbiotic relationship between
the symbiosis between the flower bulb and the fungus is not yet as good as we had
using natural enemies is still lacking, but is certainly expected to yield
fungi, such as mycorrhiza, in the soil and
expected. Together with the KAVB and the bulb growers we are now going to see whether
added value for the agro-ecological system in the future.
crops. The fungus forms filaments within
we can improve the conditions so as to enable the BiomyPro mycorrhiza fungi to
the soil that attach themselves to the plant’s
function optimally. As a supplier we want to offer our members and customers profitable
roots. These filaments grow deep into the
alternatives to crop protection products and fertilisers. I notice
soil and provide the plant with moisture
that our members and customers appreciate this.”
CleanLight’s UV light halts the spread of virus in lilies
Agricultural and horticultural crops can be protected against fungi,
and minerals from deeper soil. Agrifirm
Plant works together with the company
Leen van der Heiden
bacteria and viruses using a special form of ultraviolet (UV) light.
Biomygreen to provide mycorrhiza fungi
Agrifirm Flower Bulb Specialist
The bulb sector in particular has experimented with this. This means
and associated advice. Following a series
fewer agents would be required and that produces environmental
of successful practical trials with BiomyPro
gains. At the beginning of 2015, Agrifirm Plant together with
mycorrhiza fungi with onions, sport fields
CleanLight B.V. developed a treatment unit designed to curtail the
Biodiversity as a Social Function
and tulip bulbs, Agrifirm Plant supervised
Cultivating hyacinths with fewer agents
Plantago asiatica mosaic virus in lily bulbs. By illuminating lily bulbs
There are also other conceivable measures that stimulate
a number of practical trials with hyacinth
“I often participate in practical innovation trials aimed at more sustainable bulb cultiva-
all around with the right concentration of CleanLight UV light, the
biodiversity, but that do not fit into the farmer’s and grower’s
bulbs in the autumn of 2015. Twelve bulb
tion. I notice that it is becoming increasingly important to grow high-quality products
virus does not have any chance of spreading. Practical Research Plant
earnings model. Biodiversity with an added value for the ecological
growers in the Sustainable Bulb Cultivation
with less fertilisers and crop protection products. I wanted to see with my own eyes
& Environment - part of Wageningen UR (WUR) - concluded that
system (third level) or for the layout of the landscape (fourth level).
Study Group of the Royal General Bulb
whether the mycorrhiza fungus also has positive effects on hyacinths. In consultation with
a high concentration of CleanLight UV does not have any adverse
For the sake of the social importance of biodiversity, farmers and
Growers' Association (KAVB) investigated
Agrifirm’s cultivation specialists, I mixed the fungus into a one hectare plant bed. The sci-
affect on the lily’s bulb quality and growth.
growers could, for example, decide to provide space for meadow
how hyacinth bulbs can benefit from the
entific substantiation, guidance and the regular analysis supporting the practical trial give
BiomyPro mycorrhiza fungi.
birds at the edges of their fields or maintain meandering rivers. These
me confidence that we can truly achieve something with the
are perfect measures for preserving biodiversity that farmers can
trial. As a grower of flower bulbs, I would like to grow beautiful
only take if they are sufficiently compensated for this financially. As a
hyacinth bulbs in a more sustainable way.”
cooperative organisation we like to work on preserving biodiversity
with a clear earnings model for our farmers and growers. Because
34
Agrifirm
Arjan Hogervorst
they know better than anyone else that nature sustains life, now and
Flower Bulb Grower with 22 ha of hyacinths in Noordwijkerhout
in the distant future.
35
Contribution of Innovation Projects to Sustainability
Agrifirm invests in fundamental and practical research to realise
pillars of the sustainability policy. The percentage of the research
The diverging rates are explained by the fact
higher yield and sustainability impact at the farm, to maintain its
projects that address specific topics related to the six pillars is
position as market leader and to contribute to a sustainable food
presented in the summary below.
that research can score on different topics. The
supply. As in previous years, AIC, Agrifirm Plant and Agrifirm Business
topics that are part of the six sustainability pillars
Excellence (BE) conducted a sustainability scan to determine which
naturally are consistent with the Dutch Farming
R&D and Business Excellence projects in 2015 contributed to the six
vision. The three Dutch Farming themes guide
Agrifirm’s innovation and development agenda
Sustainable Raw Materials AIC
Plant
Alternative proteins
7 %
2%
Business Excellence
and provide direction to our innovation agenda
and partnerships.
Improved plant efficiency
14 %*
Smart Feeding
Improved transport efficiency
no specific Research into DairyStart, a concept for the accelerated breeding
BE projects
of young cattle within 22 months is a good example of ‘Smart
Feeding’. DairyStart makes it possible to have young cattle calve at 22
months in an efficient manner with lower nitrogen and phosphate
Improved phosphate efficiency at the farm
47 % 41 %
concentrations in rations, while maintaining fewer calves. This
Improved nitrogen efficiency at the farm
43 % 41 %
concept supports the health of young cattle and contributes to a
Reduced carbon footprint of end-products at the farm
43 %, 5%
further improvement in efficiency in comparison to breeding young
27 % 66 %
cattle within 24-26 months.
Developments that contribute to reducing/preventing
air and water quality pollution through means of agricultural input
Healthy Soil, Plants and Animals
Improved use of crop protection products
(more with less, or use of low-impact products)
49 %
The research into the use of mycorrhiza fungi is a good fit with the
Reduced water consumption at the farm
2%
theme ‘Healthy Soil, Plants and Animals’. In cooperation with Agrifirm
Scarcity/reuse of raw materials
5%
Plant, the company Biomygreen carried out tests with potatoes and
20 % the mycorrhiza fungi. The trials demonstrated that potatoes with
the mycorrhiza fungi suffer from fewer attacks and that the yield
Contribution to improved public health at consumer level
3%
Contribution to preventing human resistance to antibiotics
17 %
Improved animal health and welfare
50 %
improves by 4 per cent. Agrifirm Plant consequently developed
20 %
commercial products with the mycorrhiza fungus in 2015.
Strength in the Chain
Development of products that enhance the natural resistance
of plants, soil and animals
30 % Improved soil physics
29 %
Agrifirm has been working with the Veldleeuwerik Foundation for
32 %
several years. It is a good example of research and cooperation
within the theme ‘Strength in the Chain’. In 2015, there were
consultations to determine ten themes for which Agrifirm can furnish
Sustainable Consumer Supply
Direct cost reduction of own and/or member activities or improved balance sheet
43 % 46 %
29 %
input for providing additional training to foundation members. In
Development of sustainable chains
10 % 17 %
29 %
total, approximately 600 growers received additional training. In the
future, Agrifirm will share knowledge at meetings on sustainable
Employees, the Foundation for Success
Contribution to training internal or external parties
agriculture. This way we support growers in taking steps towards
3%
17 %
43 %
more sustainable food production.
* In 2015, the focus of Business Excellence primarily was on quality improvement projects.
36
Agrifirm
37
7. Contributing to a Sustainable
Consumer Supply
SLOWFEED for more sustainable chicken meat
Animal health and welfare are becoming increasingly more important to buyers. We can innovate in this area on a market-oriented basis, by
working together with partners and customers. A good example of this is the SLOWFEED concept for slower growing broiler chickens. The
product consists of two feed lines: SLOWFEED COMFORT for slow growing broiler chickens and SLOWFEED FREE RANGE for free range chickens
with outdoor access. Agrifirm Feed developed this feed in cooperation with chain partner Plukon, one of the largest players on the market for
poultry meat.
Smart entrepreneurs look beyond their own enterprise. Insight into the entire chain and new earnings
models are more important than ever for sustainable and profitable enterprise. A broader choice of
sustainable and healthy food helps people make a positive change to their consumption pattern.
Chain cooperation is essential for this purpose. Agrifirm is convinced that every party in the chain
makes an indispensable contribution. Together we work on product concepts with shorter chains
and on the use of local raw materials.
Increased Animal health
and Welfare
Joint Market-oriented Innovation
“SLOWFEED FREE RANGE is the best feed for
More enjoyment from our work
due to the free range concept
“Since 2009, we have been working with Agri-
the Goed Nest Kip, Plukon’s trade mark for
“In 2009, we switched to the free range
firm Feed on the development of SLOWFEED,
chickens raised in a high-quality environ-
concept. Our chickens are very active. They
a husbandry system and feed concept for
ment, that should only grow a maximum
often jump on the hay bales in the stable
slower growing broiler chickens that produc-
of 50 grams per day. By frequently assessing
and over a period of seven weeks or so pick
es good yields. The system safeguards animal
growth, feed conversion, losses, the use of
it completely apart. The animals are also far
welfare and veterinary medicines are virtu-
antibiotics and the balance sheet, we can
more robust and over the past five years no
Our Objectives
ally absent. We now have an optimal mix of
provide tailored advice and help achieve
longer needed any antibiotics. The chickens
By 2025, Agrifirm is the main consultation partner for chain parties in developing and testing new chain concepts.
genetics, feed and a husbandry system with
good returns for the poultry farmer. In just
are fed 100 per cent vegetable feed each day.
daylight, enriched with hay bales and sprin-
one year, the Goed Nest Kip has already
By adjusting the proportion of the additional
kled feed with cereals for the Goed Nest Kip
achieved a greater market volume than the
cereals we spread we are able to effectively
and the free range chicken. The high scores
free range chicken. Poultry farmers can now
manage the cost of the feed and the weight
in terms of walking behaviour, cleanliness
choose the market for which they wish to
of the animals. It also has made our work
of the plumage and loss demonstrate that
produce: traditional, free range or the Goed
more enjoyable. No longer any stress for peo-
together we have achieved higher animal
Nest Kip market. Our consultants help poul-
ple and animals! Together with the hatchery,
health and welfare.”
try farmers choose the right concept for their
Agrifirm and Plukon, we are responding
farm with the best equilibrium between their
quickly to new developments. The poultry
balance sheet and work enjoyment.”
sector truly is a strong chain.”
René Welpelo
Mathieu Woltring
Erald Brilman
Director Corporate Quality
Commercial Director Broiler Poultry
Livestock Farmer with 46,000 free range
at Plukon
at Agrifirm
chicks, 60 dairy cows and 50 young cattle.
> These slower growing broiler chickens are raised in accordance with the SLOWFEED concept.
38
Agrifirm
39
Sustainable Milling Wheat
Koopmans Partnership
Agrifirm Plant is working together with Koopmans Koninklijke
“Koopmans consciously opts for more regionally and sustainably
Meelfabrieken to make sustainably cultivated milling wheat
cultivated raw materials that can be fully traced back to Dutch
available to Dutch bakers. Increasingly more bakers like to
farming fields. We want to offer our customers ingredients
bake bread using mixes that include milling wheat from Dutch
that are produced with maximum purity and sustainability. A
fields, cultivated in accordance with the sustainable cultivation
number of years ago, we initiated a sustainable milling wheat
principles of the Veldleeuwerik Foundation. The partnership is
project in the northern Netherlands. We wanted to scale this
to produce 5,000 tonnes of milling wheat within three years.
up to all of the Netherlands and Agrifirm was a logical partner
Both partners aim to process the first milling wheat produced by
for us. Agrifirm can supply the volume we need to increase the
the project in the Koopmans mixes for Dutch bakers starting in
proportion of Dutch milling wheat in our mixes. The choice of
September 2016
variety, fertilisation and harvest of milling wheat require new
Carbon Footprinting
knowledge. Agrifirm is able to translate our needs to the farm
Carbon footprinting is the calculation of the total greenhouse gas
of milk, meat or eggs produced using Agrifirm Feed’s feeds. The
Agrifirm Plant provides advice to the Veldleeuwerik growers on
and to help growers improve their crops. By working together
emissions of a product throughout its entire lifespan. Since 2014,
carbon footprint of chicken meat has declined in comparison to
topics such as the choice of varieties, cultivation and harvest, and
in a chain context and by sharing practical knowledge, we work
Agrifirm has been working within the Federation of European
2014. In 2014, corn from South America was used as part of the
ensures the product is stored separately. Koopmans Koninklijke
together with Agrifirm to improve the quality of Dutch milling
Compound Feed Manufacturers (FEFAC) on a Product Environmental
raw materials that make up the animal feed for chickens. In 2015, a
Meelfabrieken tests the baking properties of every batch of
wheat and create a shorter and transparent chain.”
Footprinting (PEF) study supported by the European Commission.
higher concentration of soy was used in the animal feed, which is
Pilots are conducted within the study to develop a collective
favourable in terms of the carbon footprint. In addition, the use of
trials for each batch, the quality of the various varieties becomes
Bauke Wierda
methodology designed to determine the CO2 footprint at the
soy in the animal feed for chickens resulted in a better utilisation of
clear. Agrifirm Plant then provides this feedback to the relevant
Manager Sourcing Koopmans Koninklijke Meelfabrieken
milling wheat it receives. By conducting milling and baking
product level. In addition, Agrifirm is consulting the Food and
nutrients. In 2015, the feed supplied 8.9 cycles, while it supplied 7.3
arable farmers. By working together, Koopmans Koninklijke
Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the American animal feed
cycles in 2014.
Meelfabrieken and Agrifirm Plant improve the quality of Dutch
industry concerning the creation of a global database, the Global
milling wheat and create a shorter and transparent chain. For
Feed LCI database, with background data for calculating the CO2
By reducing the amount of corn and increasing the amount of
Dutch arable farmers this is a wonderful opportunity to convert
footprint.
soy in animal feed, the carbon footprint of milk and eggs declined
somewhat in comparison to 2014. In 2015, a lower carbon footprint
an anonymous bulk product into a local and sustainable product
was realised for pig meat as well. This decline too can be explained
for Dutch bakers and their customers.
The CO2 Footprint of Milk, Meat and Eggs
by a reduction in the use of corn and an increase in the use of soy in
The infographic below illustrates the CO2 equivalent number of
animal feed. The adjustment of the calculation method for piglets is
kilograms of emissions released during the production of a kilogram
not evident from the figures.
Carbon Footprint kg Co2 eq/kg product
6,000
LuLuc
4,000
Feed
2,000
Farm
Pig meat
40
Agrifirm
Chicken meat
Milk
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
0
Eggs
41
8. The Foundation for Success
Agrifirm Academy
Agrifirm wants to take good care of its employees. We do this
by providing excellent terms and conditions of employment,
Expert and motivated employees are indispensable to the success of a company. Agrifirm is an
attractive employer with excellent terms and conditions of employment, and excellent training and
career development opportunities. Characteristics include a pleasant company culture and appealing
Agrifirm
Academy
as well as by investing in good training opportunities. In 2015,
Agrifirm’s Human Resources (HR) department introduced the
Agrifirm Academy: a combination of existing training courses
supplemented with new training opportunities. In the future,
we will be investigating how to provide access to the Agrifirm
company objectives with corporate social responsibility as a key theme. This is how we attract the
Academy to employees abroad and possibly to our members and
best employees and achieve the best possible results.
customers as well.
Ethical Business Conduct Workshop
Our Goal
Almost all Agrifirm Plant’s employees attended the ethical
To remain successful, Agrifirm aims to be the employer of choice in the field of agricultural products by 2020. By 2020, Agrifirm will have visibly
business conduct workshop. This workshop, presented by the
Personal Development
developed leadership as one of the key success factors for our company. This manifests itself in various ways within the company, for example
Hofmann agency, was developed to stimulate awareness about
“Development is important for the future of employees and
by means of a high rate of internal promotions.
this theme. The objective is to operate completely transparently
the company. This is why Agrifirm offers its employees good
and to embed this approach in the form of clear rules of conduct.
education and training opportunities. The Agrifirm Academy
This can include all kinds of practical examples, such as making
provides the logical structure needed for this. The goal is
use of photocopiers for personal purposes, accepting or politely
to provide new employees, as well as employees that have
declining gifts from suppliers or customers, and how to provide
worked for Agrifirm for many years, suitable education and
advice concerning products that are not permitted to be applied
training programmes that support their personal development.
Re-stated Safety Policy
Working Safely Together
to crops in the Netherlands. These rules of conduct are discussed
Agrifirm’s employees are the foundation for
“Following several incidents at production sites, we asked ourselves whether we were
in the workshop and therefore originate from the group of
The Agrifirm Academy meets the 70:20:10 principle: 70 per cent
the company’s success. Agrifirm is devoted
actually doing well in the area of safety. Our employees are passionate about their
employees itself.
of learning through working, 20 per cent through coaching and
to the health and safety of its employees
profession, but this must not cause us to lose sight of safety. Naturally all of us want
and visitors. Our safety policy aims to create
everyone to return home safely after a day’s work. Following an initial safety survey, we
Customer Satisfaction
training, we also focus on other forms of learning, such as
a safe working environment for everyone
identified 23 areas for improvement. Together with management and the Works Council
Agrifirm surveys customer satisfaction every two years. It is
online learning and on-the-job coaching. The traditional
working at Agrifirm. We want all of our
Safety Committee, we are fine-tuning our policy therefore.
very important to any company to understand their customers’
way of education in a classroom setting also continues to be
opinion of them. Agrifirm Feed’s and Agrifirm Plant’s customers
important, because it is important to learn from each other and
to exercise skills in a ‘live’ environment.
employees and visitors to arrive back home
10 per cent through formal training. In addition to traditional
safely and in good health after a day’s work.
A key component of the renewed safety policy is the traffic plan that we are developing
are generally satisfied. The personal contact with – and the
The need for safety to continue to be a
for Agrifirm Plant’s four production sites. The two production sites that are shared with
expert advice of – consultants is the key factor in this regard.
priority was emphasized by a fatal accident
Agrifirm Feed will be tackled jointly. For each site we are preparing a brochure with safety
Agrifirm Feed’s customers give product quality, online ordering
As of December 2015, e-books about various occupation-
at a farm involving one of the transport
instructions and a floor plan. The biggest gain, however, is in discussing safety risks during
options and the ordering app a high score. The survey also shows
specific topics have been available and we are going to develop
carriers hired by us.
regular work meetings. By putting safety on the agenda of work meetings, we can hold
that customers would like the general service to be somewhat
e-learning modules that include training modules for process
To assume responsibility in the area of
each other to account for our responsibility for our own safety
more personal. Agrifirm Feed will most definitely work on this
operators. With the Agrifirm Academy we want to stimulate our
safety, we initiated a large safety project in
and that of others. So that all of us will reach our retirement age
over the coming period. Agrifirm Plant’s customers consider
employees to make learning a life-long process for personal
cooperation with Nevedi in 2015.
in good health.”
the significantly improved handling of complaints a positive
development and positive commercial
development. A striking finding is that Agrifirm Plant’s innovative
results.”
42
Agrifirm
Jacques Wassenberg
character is not immediately recognised as such by members
Team Leader Quality Assurance, Agrifirm Plant
and customers. In the coming period, Agrifirm Plant is going to
Joke Mens
investigate how to better convey this aspect to members and
Manager Learning & Development,
customers.
Agrifirm Feed
43
Accidents and Absence Due to Illness
Employee Training
Agrifirm's average absence due to illness rate was 3.4 % in 2015. In
Agrifirm aims to be the best company in its market. The way in which
comparison to 2014, the absence due to illness rate declined from
employees exercise their responsibilities is very important in this
0.6 % to 0.2 %. The duration of absence increased from 10 working
respect. This is why Agrifirm regularly organises training for ‘Young
days in 2014, to 25 working days. The frequency of accidents also
Employees Agrifirm’ (YEA) for employees up to age 35 with a higher
increased from 3.9 % in 2014 to 4.8 % in 2015.
education level. In addition to leadership training, Agrifirm invests in
(further) training, for example relating to working conditions, safety
and leadership.
Expenditures
Employee Training as
Number of Incidents
Absence due to Illness
a % of employees per €K
Average
20152014
20152014
20152014
4.5
803
1,367
1.9
164
945
Compound Feed Europe
Agrifirm Belgium
1
0
2.8
2.7
340
1,125
2
0
3.3
7.1
590
155
Agrifirm Polska
3
1
2.9
1.1
449
120
Agrifirm Magyraroszág
1
1
1.3
3.7
358
86
BV Oldambt
0
0
8.3
2.9
1,536
90
3.4
864
244
1.2
356
42
Specialties
9
1.8
2012
500
2013
0
2014
2015
Agri Retail
2.8
Agrifirm Winkel BV
1
NutriControl BV
2
2011
1,000
Agrifirm Exlan
Agrifirm Plant
1,500
BV Oldambt
98
Abemec BV
1,023
Agrifirm Plant
2.1
Feed Belgium
3.7
3
Agrifirm Hungary
8
Agrifirm Polska
Agrifirm Feed 3
2,500
2,000
Member companies
Nuscience Group
Training (€/Employee)
2.0
Nuscience NV
0
Agrifirm Feed BV
0
Agrifirm Group
Agrifirm Group (excl. participating interests)
Co-products
2
2
2.1
Knowledge & Innovation Cluster
NutriControl 05
3.2
4.0
740
Agrifirm Exlan
3
0
1.8
4.6
504
549
0
1.9
7.3
681
1,944
Service Companies
Agrimec Group
0
Agrifirm Winkel BV
8
0
4.3
4.6
77
91
Agri Retail
0
0
5.0
4.4
638
297
44
Agrifirm
45
Gender
Workforce Composition
Total number of FTEs in 2015: 3,179
Male
74%
Female
26%
Total number of employees in 2015: 3,570
Colophon
Distribution of Total Number of Employees (FTEs)
Agrifirm Group
69
Agrifirm’s 2015 Corporate Sustainability Report is a publication of the
Agrifirm Plant (Netherlands and Germany)
272
Agrifirm Group and is available in digital format on Agrifirm’s website.
Agrifirm Magyarország Zrt. 127
Agrifirm Feed Nederland
552
Editorial Committee
Abemec Group
202
CSR Department of the Agrifirm Group, Communications Department of the Agrifirm Group,
Age
Agrifirm Winkel BV
419
HR Department and Finance Agrifirm Group, Agrifirm Innovation Center, R&D Plant
Nuscience Group
1,021
< 29
30%
Oldambt
20
Text
30-50
47%
103
Schuttelaar & Partners
> 51
23%
123
Agrifirm Exlan
43
Concept and realisation
Agrifirm Belgium
26
DTP Agrifirm
Agrifirm Polska
122
NutriControl79
Contact details
Agrifirm Group
Job Families
Landgoedlaan 20
7325 AW Apeldoorn, The Netherlands
Management
4%
Commerce
23%
PO Box 20000
Staff, Support
15%
7302 HA Apeldoorn, The Netherlands
and Services
Research and
T +31 (0)88 488 10 00
3%
Innovation
E [email protected]
website: www.agrifirm.com/duurzaam
Operations 53%
Miscellaneous
2%
June 2016
Employment Contract
Indeterminate
81%
Determinate
19%
46
Agrifirm
Total 3,179 employees
47
APPENDICES
Ava Schothorst
Agrifirm Plant
Ava AniMedica
Steering Group Precision Agriculture Programme
Agrivaknet
Steering Group SGGV Crop Protection Products
Top Sector Consultation Body: Soil Programme
Appendix 1: KPIs Relating to the Organisation
Memberships and Endorsed Codes/Principles
Agrifirm Belgium
Nemadecide
VLOG
Geonema
GMP+
Agrodis
Ovocom/FCA (KAT,HFA)
Mineral Fertilisers Federation (MMF)
Agrifirm Group BV
SecureFeed Technical Committee
SecureFeed
Plantum, Cereals Section
FEFAC, Sustainability Taskforce
Nevedi/LTO Feed Track Agreement
Bemefa
Plantum, Trade Section Cultivation License
FEFAC Praesidium
Nevedi Long-term Agreements
AMCRA
NAK
Project Leadership, Responsible Soy Chain Transition Foundation
GMP+/AS
WPSA
Veldleeuwerik Foundation
Dairy Campus Innovation Committee
GMP+ Sub-committee on Responsibility
Flanders Food
Dutch Carrot Group
SAI (Sustainable Agriculture Initiative)
SecureFeed Board
LLTB
HACCP
ZLTO
Agrifirm Feed / AIC
SKAL
QS
Netrecycle
Schothorst Feed Research, Basic Package Committee
VLOG
KAT
Mineral Fertilisers Federation
Feed4Foodure Top Sectors Project
GMP+ FRA (Responsible)
QM-Milk
Mineral Fertilisers Distribution
Netherlands Animal Feed Research Association
GMP+ Countrynote’s Antibiotic-free Feed and Dioxin Agreement
GMP Committees for Logistics and Product Assessment
Avined Salmonella Working Group (formerly PPE)
Agrifirm Poland
Top Sectors Chain Platform
Schothorst: Foundation Board, Animal Committee Cattle,
FND Risk Assessment Working Group
GMP
Steering Group Thorough Corn Farming in Drenthe
Animal Committee Pigs
SecureFeed Supplier Assessment Working Group
ISO9001:2008
NIBEM (Barley Brewing Advisory Committee)
Trustfeed, Supplier Assessment Working Group
Nuscience Group
Agrifirm Hungary
Organic Food and Livestock Platform
GMP
ISO 22000:2005 (Kaba, Győr)
Schothorst Feed Research, Animal Committee Poultry
GMP+
HACCP (Kaba, Győr)
Abemec
CVB
ISO 9001 / 22000
ISO 14001:2005 (Kaba)
SCC Standards
WPSA
ACS
Global GAP (Kaba, Győr)
KA Certifications Standards
Nevedi ATEX
Socially Responsible Soy Contracts
GMP+B1 (Kaba, Győr)
SCC Certification
Nevedi Board
Cochon de Bretagne
OSI Food Solutions (Kaba, Győr)
STEK Certification
Trustfeed Board
Viande de Porc
CVB
A+ Futter
Oldambt
GMP+ International Expert Committee
QS
GMP+
Dutch Fodder Legumes Driers Association
FEFAC Quality Feed
AMCRA
SecureFeed
CIDE (European Fodder Legumes Driers Association)
FEFAC Committee Animal Nutrition
Bemefa
FEFAC Working Group Former Feedstuffs on behalf of VIDO
Copa-Cogeca, Fodder Legumes Working Group
International GMP+ Sustainable Fishmeal & Fish oil
Pig Veterinaries Survey Group
International Expert Committee of GMP+ (on behalf of OPNV), Transport
Dutch Federation of Agricultural and Horticultural Organizations (LTO)
Occupational Health & Safety Catalogue
WPSA
International Expert Committee of GMP+ (on behalf of OPNV), Feed
ANOG
GMP+ Guidance
European Pig Producers Platform
Safety Database
GMP+
NEVEDI Substance and Endotoxins
Nevedi Premixes Consultation Platform
OPNV
SKAL
Nevedi Arbo (working conditions) and the Environment
Fefana
SecureFeed
Expert Committee Rikilt Risk System Raw Materials and Lab Methods
Frana
QS
Nevedi Animal Feed Legislation
Animal Feed Research and Animal Feed Product Board Advisory Committee
ETS
SecureFeed Working Group Product Assessment
IPVS
Arable Farming Product Board
Agrivaknet PR and Communications
48
Agrifirm
Nemadecide
Geonema
49
Overview of key themes that emerged in consultation with stakeholders
Agrifirm Exlan
Cumela Section Manure Distribution
Arable Farming and Horticultural Activities
Manure Sales Office
Steering Group Project Office Local Manure Processing
Nevedi Cycle Management Guide Working Groups
Sustainable Raw Materials Cycle Management Guide User Working Group
Cycle Management Guide Database User Group
(recycling, crops, certifications) (plant health, soil health, flowers & bees) (safety at work, consulting) RAV Committee
From-the-farm collection of Partnership with
NutriControl
empty crop protection barrels Veldleeuwerik Foundation
NEN Food Committee
by Netrecycling,
NEN Animal Feed Committee
Van Gansewinkel Groep. Continuation of Sustainable
Brewing Barley Chain
NEN Halal Food Committee
Biodiversity (Heineken & Holland Malt)
VRS
Partnership with Koopmans on
GMP+ Reliability of Laboratory Testing Steering Group
sustainable milling wheat
Agrifirm Winkel
Resetting soil, public-private
Agri Retail/Agrifirm Winkel
partnership (biological soil
Flowering Platform
remediation)
Fenelab Agrofood Committee
Transport Health and Safety of Customers and Consumers
Fenelab Accreditation Committee
RND
BPN
Partnership with Agrometium
Dibevo
(Veris Scan): soil analysis in
NMF/NMD
combination with task cards
Fagrovet
for growers
Partnership with Nefyto sector
organisation for using toolbox
cards to limit emissions caused
by crop protection products
Public-private Partnerships
/ top sectors programmes: PPP
sustainable soil, IJkakker.
50
Agrifirm
51
Livestock Farming Activities
Company
Animal Health and Welfare
Minerals Co-products
Climate Sustainable Raw Material
Safety and Liveability for
(efficiency, manure processing,
(greenhouse gas emissions)
(local raw materials, sustainable
Local residents near
Food Safety
cycles) soy, sustainable procurement) Plants
Agrifirm Group
Manure processing
LEAP partnership FAO,
Promoting awareness of
Foundation of SecureFeed
(excl. participating interests)
ForFarmers, De Heus, ZLTO
FEFAC, AFIA
European soy, WUR, ILVO
organisation
F4F Feedprint WUR, F4F
Partnership with Provinces
partners
and private partners for mar-
keting of Dutch soy
F4F alternative proteins, WUR,
F4F partners
Sustainable soy chain transition:
Sustainable Dairy Chain, Environmental certificate and Nevedi
Agreement sustainable soy
Involvement in FEFAC Roadmap to Sustainable Soy
Agrifirm Feed / AIC
Smart Dairy Farming
Smart Dairy Farming
Strategic partnership with
Agreements with carriers
Procurement of sustainable
partnership
partnership
Vitens
about more EURO 6 vehicles
raw materials: sustainable soy
WUR + private partners:
Partnership Belgium (Fancom
research into intestinal health
and University of Leuven) for
of piglets
precision feeding
Employees and zoonosis:
Continuation of Manure
Nevedi / Occupational Health
Investment Fund
Nevedi/Hisfa, etc.
meal, sustainable soy oil from
RTRS, ProTerra, Amaggi, etc.
& Safety (Arbo) Catalogue
Cycle Management Guide
partnership
Partners with scientific and
private partners on increasing
the availability of amino acids
52
Agrifirm
53
Company
Minerals Co-products
Climate Sustainable Raw Material Safety and Liveability for (efficiency, manure processing, (greenhouse gas emissions) (local raw materials, sustainable
soy, sustainable procurement) Plants
cycles) Nuscience NV
Food Safety
Partnership with the Free
Partnerships with private
University of Berlin: the effect
parties: conversion of
parties: enhancement of
parties: enhancement of
of functional feed ingredients
co-products into energy and
raw materials through
raw materials through
on animal health
functional feed ingredients
fermentation
fermentation
raw materials: mostly nonGMO broiler meat
Agrifirm Polska
Agrifirm Hungary
Soy meal procured regionally
for specific customers
Lime used in animal feed procured from special mines
(GMO-free)
corn, wheat and barley
procured from local farmers
Feed Belgium
IWT trial with precision feeding
of fattening pigs (partners:
soy via Bemefa
Fancom KU Leuven AIC)
54
Agrifirm
55
Company
Minerals (efficiency, manure processing,
cycles)
Co-products
Climate Sustainable Raw Material Safety and Liveability for (greenhouse gas emissions) (local raw materials, sustainable
soy, sustainable procurement) Plants
Food Safety Abemec BV
Oldambt BV
Partnership
Grey Harrier Foundation
Agrifirm Exlan BV
Nutricontrol BV
Agrifirm Winkel BV
56
Agrifirm
57
Services and Sales Markets
Appendix 2: KPIs Relating to the Environment
The various Agrifirm companies offer the following services:
Carbon Footprint
> Agrifirm Plant: cultivation advice to members in arable farming, organic arable farming, flower bulbs, fruit growers, contract workers,
The carbon footprint is the sum of the greenhouse gas emissions during the life cycle of the animal products based on the unit kg CO2
equivalent/kg functional unit (FU) (milk, meat or eggs). Conclusions and explanations from the 2015 report are as follows:
public landscaping and open-field vegetable crops.
> Agrifirm Feed: advice and assistance to members in cattle farming, dairy farming, meat cattle, goat, horse,
> The carbon footprint of chicken meat in 2015 declined in comparison to 2014 and prior years. In 2014, more corn was used in broiler feed,
while more soy was used in 2015. This shift in the use of these raw materials reduces the carbon footprint and results in a better utilisation
> NutriControl: laboratory testing relating to nutritional issues in the feed and food industry (analytical chemistry,
of nutrients. The 2015 feed on average supplied 8.9 cycles, while the 2014 feed on average supplied 7.3 cycles.
> In 2015, the carbon footprint of milk declined slightly in comparison to 2014 due to reduced use of corn and the increased use of soy
poultry and pig livestock farming.
instrumental analysis, microbiology, BSE monitoring and customer-specific services relating to quality assurance).
> Abemec: part of the Agrimec Group, and supplier of agricultural mechanisation systems, also provides services relating
> The carbon footprint of eggs stayed stable and a comparison of the 2015 feed composition with that of 2014 shows no discernible differences.
to maintenance and 24-hour break-down service.
in dairy cattle feed.
> Agrifirm Exlan: services relating to farm development and manure legislation.
> In 2015, the carbon footprint of pig meat declined in comparison to 2014. This is also due to the reduced use of corn and the increased
> Bonda: advice relating to storage and feeding systems in compliance with all conditions for optimal, efficient and safe use of moist
use of soy. The adjustment of the calculation method for piglets as described in the 2014 Corporate Sustainability Report is not visible in
2015. It is possible that the shift last year was not due to a change in methodology.
and dry animal feeds.
These services are provided by the following companies:
> Agrifirm Group
> Agrifirm Feed
Carbon Footprint > Agrifirm Plant
6,000
> Nuscience Group
4,000
> Agrifirm Co-products
2,000
> Feed Europe:
kg Co2 eq/kg product
LuLuc
Feed
Farm
0
- Agrifirm Belgium
- Agrifirm Deutschland
- Agrifirm Polska
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2015
2014
2013
2012
> BV Oldambt
2011
2010
- Agrifirm Magyarország
> Agrifirm Exlan
Pig meat
>NutriControl
Chicken meat
Milk
Eggs
> Agrimec Group
> Agrifirm Winkel BV
Feed Miles and Land Use
> Agri Retail
Efficient production results in a smaller environmental footprint. Efficient use of raw materials ensures that more can be produced with
Agrifirm’s companies operate in:
less. This is why Agrifirm annually calculates the transport mileage (‘feed miles’) and the area of agricultural land (‘land use’) required for the
The Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Spain, Hungary, Poland, Ukraine, Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria, Russia, Brazil and
production of a kilogramme of milk, pig meat, poultry meat and eggs. This calculation includes all links in the chain, from the cultivation of raw
China.
materials for animal feeds up to and including the products produced by livestock farmers.
Land Use
2015
2014
Pig meat
3.4
3.5
Pig meat
2.98
5.38
Eggs
2.6
2.8
Eggs
3.16
3.57
2.6
2.8
Poultry meat
3.11
3.73
0.8
Milk
1.50
1.46
Poultry meat
Milk
58
Agrifirm
0.88
Feed Miles
20152014
59
Investing in Energy Efficiency
Co-products
Agrifirm’s production and logistics contribute to the emissions of greenhouse gases, among others. In 2015, Agrifirm therefore invested in
In the Netherlands, the use of co-products as a raw material for animal feed increased. The use of co-products in the production of pig feed in
various measures designed to decrease the environmental footprint. Agrifirm Feed invested in the renovation of two production sites
particular resulted in higher phosphate concentrations. This reduced phosphate savings in pig feed.
in Oss. Agrifirm Deutschland invested in various facilities, including € 850,000 in a new and more energy efficient production line. Nuscience
invested in the purchase of two bale presses, thus reducing the need for packaging materials. Additional investments were also made in raw
materials silos resulting in a reduction in purchases of materials in big bags. Furthermore, new machine motors were acquired that consume
Co-products(%)
less energy. The Agrifirm Feed Belgian production site invested €30,000 in green energy.
90.0
80.0
70.0
60.0
50.0
40.0
30.0
20.0
10.0
0
2012
2013
2014
Agrifirm Feed
2010
2011
2012
2013
Opeinde
Oldambt
Veghel
Baasrode
Drongen
Bocs
Gyor
Kaba
Neuss
Topola
Szamotuly
Margonin
Grobbendonk
Zwolle
Wanssum
Oss
Meppel
Emmen
Veghel
Agrifirm
Belgium
Laying hens (eggs)
Broilers (live weight)
PL
DE
NL
HU
PL
BE
NL
HU
PL
DE
BE
NL
HU
PL
DE
BE
2015
Pigs (live weight)
Drachten
200
180
160
140
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
2011
NL
Energy Efficiency Index
2010
Cattle (milk)
Recycling Materials
Recycling materials allows for more efficient use of raw materials. Just like any other year, Agrifirm Plant invested in the collection of bulb nets
Agrifirm Polska
2014
Agrifirm
Deutschland
Nuscience
Group
Agrifirm
Magyarország Zrt.
NutriControl
BV Oldambt
that are recycled into a base product for the plastics industry. Agrifirm Plant also offers growers the option of having empty jerry cans of crop
protection agents, barrels and big-bags recycled. NutriControl also separated its different materials in 2015.
2015
Location
Energy efficiency 2015 in Comparison to Reference Year
160
140
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
Type of Waste
kg 2015
kg 2014
NutriControlchemical
4,396
3,722
NutriControlplastics
660
920
NutriControlpaper
5,200
5,174
Nutricontrolglass
1,806 2,225
NutriControl
hospital waste
38,175
18,575
NutriControl
dry feed
12,180
15,040
NutriControl
residual waste
23,400
19,087
Oldambt invested in the recycling of bottom ash, the residual product that remains after drying/incinerating raw materials, for use in
Opeinde
Oldambt
Veghel
Baasrode
Drongen
Bocs
Gyor
Kaba
Neuss
Topola
Szamotuly
Margonin
Grobbendonk
Zwolle
Wanssum
Veghel
Oss
Meppel
Emmen
Drachten
manufacturing bricks.
Belgium
Poland
A healthy and fertile soil is crucial for achieving positive cultivation results. Soil must not become depleted or overstrained. This is why we
continuously work with our customers on creating healthy soil and resistant crops. A good example of this is the quick test that provides
growers with insight into the organic material balance on their farm. On the basis of the quick test results, a grower can compensate the
NutriAgrifirm Feed
Quick Test for Organic Material Balance
Germany
Hungary
Nuscience Control
Oldambt
annual decomposition of organic material so as to keep the soil’s fertility up to par. Organic material is of major importance to the soil’s
structure, the atmosphere and water management and has a major impact on the soil’s and crops’ resistance. Agrifirm Plant also conducts
more elaborate analyses to assess the soil. In case of any soil deficiency, the analyses produce location-specific recommendations. Growers can
then improve the soil through means of the variable distribution of gypsum or compost.
60
Agrifirm
61
Appendix 3: KPIs Relating to Terms and Conditions of Employment and Human Rights
Resetting the Soil: Biological Soil Remediation
In the autumn of 2014, Agrifirm Plant together with various other parties conducted practical research into the application of Soil Resetting
Codes and Regulations
in outdoor crop cultivation. Soil Resetting is an environmentally friendly and anaerobic (without air or oxygen) method of remediating the
Agrifirm voluntarily abides by the Netherlands Corporate Governance Code. This code is mandatory for companies listed on the stock
soil from harmful nematodes. Anaerobic soil remediation is already being applied in open field crop cultivation, but takes up a full growing
exchange and contains principles and provisions that regulate the relationship between the Executive Board, the Supervisory Board,
season. The Soil Resetting method makes use of an easily biodegradable protein, Herbie®, which requires the soil to be covered for only
shareholders and the General Meeting of Shareholders. In the case of Agrifirm, the code has been adapted so as to provide a proper fit with its
two to three weeks.
cooperative character. Furthermore, the company has a Fair Business Practices code of conduct. This code of conduct is a guideline designed
to promote conscious and ethical actions under all circumstances. For example in situations involving a conflict of interest or competitive
The practical research has already produced a great deal of useful knowledge concerning the use of Soil Resetting in open field crop
methods. Employees who report abuse are protected by the Whistle-blowing Regulation. In 2015 there were no reports concerning
cultivation. In 2015, Agrifirm Plant conducted additional research into the economic rate of return of Soil Resetting in open field crop
corruption, discrimination or the violation of human rights submitted pursuant to these regulations. Agrifirm was not involved in any legal
cultivation. The nature-friendly and biological method matches Agrifirm’s policy on ‘green’ soil treatment and sustainable crop protection.
actions concerning anti-competitive behaviour or cartel formation.
Furthermore, the new method offers growers and local residents a safe alternative to the traditional product Monam that can only be applied
under strict conditions.
Collective Labour Agreements on Notice of Termination
In collective labour agreements, Agrifirm stipulates that for employees with temporary and permanent contracts, the employer must give up
to 13 weeks notice and the employee must give up to 6 weeks notice. This depends on the term of the employment contract and years of
service.
Participating in Sports at Agrifirm
Playing sports is good for one's health and a fun way to get to know colleagues better. This is why Agrifirm organises several sporting events
each year. In 2015, Agrifirm organised a sports afternoon for its employees. Employees had the option of mountain biking, cycling, playing
tennis or hiking through nature.
Sponsorship
Contributing to an agricultural powerhouse and a sound society is important to Agrifirm. This is why Agrifirm cooperated on various projects
in developing countries with ZOA and Agriterra in 2015 as well. Furthermore, we sponsored various initiatives at home and abroad. For
example, Agrifirm Feed sponsored study meetings and LTO Netherlands. Agrifirm Poland provided €1,600 to sponsor local youth organisations,
and Agrifirm Magyarország and Nuscience sponsored various social initiatives in the amount of €3,500 and €8,511 respectively. Oldambt BV
provided in-kind sponsorship for landscaping and biodiversity projects.
Employee Satisfaction
In recent years, Agrifirm took major steps in achieving employee satisfaction and commitment. The 2013 employee satisfaction survey
demonstrated a requirement for improved internal communications. This topic consequently is on the agenda of the team and work meetings
of various subsidiaries. For example, Nuscience Belgium developed an employee newsletter. Agrifirm Feed and Agrifirm Winkel BV took steps
to further improve leadership qualities in 2015 as well.
Investments in local infrastructure:
- Hungary: renovation of a road.
62
Agrifirm
63
Diversiteit leden Management Team
2015
Aantal MT Doorgegroeid Lokaal
Agrifirm Group BV
2
2
2
Agrifirm Feed
5
4
5
Nuscience Group
4
0
4
5
1
5
Agrifirm Polska
3
0
3
Agrifirm Magyarország
5
1
4
3
2
3
Agrifirm Belgium
2
2
1
Agrifirm Plant
5
4
5
Abemec
32 3
Oldambt
51 5
Agrifirm Exlan
3
NutriControl
43 4
Agrifirm Winkel BV / Agrifirm Retail
6
64
Agrifirm
3
-
3
6
link to success
Agrifirm Group
Landgoedlaan 20
7325 AW Apeldoorn
Postbus 20000
7302 HA Apeldoorn
T +31 (0)88 488 10 00
F +31 (0)88 488 18 00
[email protected]
www.agrifirm.com

SUSTAINABLE CHAINS

Transcription

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