The Italian Trade Agency, along with the Italian Meat Manufacturers’ Association (ASSICA) and the Italian Deli Meats Promotion Institute (IVSI), will host a Masterclass on the utilisation of Italian cured meats at Coleg Y Cymoedd on June 17th from 11am to 3pm.
The ASSICA “Sustainability Programme” is both a declaration of intent and a pragmatic form of accountability that can be synthesised into 5 main goals, 48 best practices and 35 concrete commitments, thus shedding light on the ‘change of pace’ that the Italian deli meat sector has been adopting and experiencing for some time.
ASSICA, in collaboration with IVSI, aims to help its member companies measure their environmental and social impact, aligning with the Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The program focuses on addressing economic, social, institutional, and environmental challenges concurrently. It emphasises raising awareness and proactive engagement within the sector towards sustainable development. The initiative evaluates ASSICA’s actions for sector companies, notable “Best Practices” implemented by these companies and ASSICA’s concrete commitments to promote sustainability.
Davide Calderone, Director of ASSICA, emphasises the need for promoting sustainable development in the sector, stating that their mission is expanding to raise companies’ sustainability profiles. With ongoing training and initiatives, ASSICA, supported by IVSI, is facilitating this shift towards environmental, economic and social sustainability. Calderone asserts that sustainable development is now the guiding principle for the association and sector companies.
Giovanni Sacchi, Director of ITA London: “The Italian Trade Agency is delighted to head to Cardiff with ASSICA, Sustainability Project campaign, showcasing the importance that sustainability and tradition play in Italian Cuisine. The United Kingdom is a strategic partner for Italy: in 2023 Italy exported almost 4 billion pounds of agri-food, drinks and tobacco products to the UK, with an increase of 7% compared to the previous year.”
THE ASSICA SUSTAINABILITY PROGRAMME IN A NUTSHELL:
- Environmental awareness: monitoring emissions at all levels and inclusion of scope 1,2, and 3 emissions in the sustainability report.
- Circular economy: cogeneration plants fueled by slaughterhouse waste and 100% renewable energy supply contracts.
- Sustainable supply chain: survey to measure suppliers’ C02 emissions.
- R&D for the environment: use of recyclable PET packaging and integration of paper up to 75% of the total material.
- Union is strength: partnerships with non-profit organisations and companies that are outspoken in the fight against food waste.
- Looking to the future: tailor-made training programmes with stakeholders at the forefront of sustainability.
The event is free of charge but availability is limited, so reserve your spot now! To register, email info@winesnvines.co.uk or call 07951199169.
Image credit: Italian Trade Agency | ASSICA
