Assessment of Biodiversity Impacts in the Supply Chain of Vandemoortele: Strategies for Sustainability

Biodiversity is essential for maintaining the health of ecosystems and ensuring the provision of critical services such as pollination, soil fertility, and water regulation. However, the food sector is one of the primary drivers of biodiversity loss globally due to practices like deforestation, overuse of pesticides, and monoculture farming. Data from organizations like Our World in Data, WWF, and FAO indicate that around 80% of global deforestation is linked to agricultural expansion, and nearly one million animal and plant species are currently at risk of extinction, with food production practices being a significant contributor. This thesis begins by defining the linking between our food systems and their impact and dependencies on the ecosystem. The study will also examine whether, in today's context, companies can genuinely be considered sustainable based on their impact on biodiversity, reviewing current standards, certifications, and initiatives that aim to reduce biodiversity loss in food supply chains. The core of the research focuses on Vandemoortele, a major European food company, analysing its supply chain’s impacts and dependencies on biodiversity. The study will provide an overview of how the food industry affects biodiversity, supported by global data and scientific literature, followed by an in-depth examination of Vandemoortele's supply chain. It will highlight the impact of key ingredients, such as palm oil and soy, on biodiversity in sourcing regions and identify critical points where the company's practices may adversely affect ecosystem health. This research will then identify biodiversity hotspots impacted by Vandemoortele's activities and critically evaluate the company's sustainability initiatives against industry best practices. The thesis aims to provide actionable recommendations for Vandemoortele to reduce its impact on biodiversity while exploring other case studies to offer alternative strategies that better manage dependencies on ecosystem services. By aligning its practices with global sustainability objectives, Vandemoortele can enhance its resilience and competitive positioning, serving as a model for other companies seeking to operate more sustainably within the constraints of a rapidly changing global environment.