Verstegen takes the next step in its sustainability ambitions with SBTi-validated climate targets

Rotterdam, March 27, 2025 – Verstegen Spices & Sauces has officially had its climate targets validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). This validation underscores its ambition and is an important step in further reducing its carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Verstegen aims to be a Net Zero company by 2050. As an interim goal, the company aims to reduce its direct emissions (scope 1 and 2) by 90% by 2035 compared to 2018. This is an ambitious target that goes beyond industry standards. Since 2018, Verstegen has already reduced its scope 1 and 2 emissions by 42%. For indirect emissions (scope 3), Verstegen follows the guidelines of the Paris Climate Agreement.

Nearly 50% of Verstegen's Scope 3 emissions come from the cultivation of agricultural ingredients. Therefore, Verstegen has formulated additional targets for emissions from agriculture and deforestation – the so-called FLAG targets (Forest, Land, and Agriculture). The company aims for deforestation-free supply chains by December 31, 2025, and aims to reduce FLAG emissions by 30% by 2030 compared to 2022.

A key component of this approach is the regenerative agriculture program, which launched in 2020. This program encourages suppliers to minimize pesticide and fertilizer use and focuses on improving soil health. With this approach, we are working to reduce and store CO2 in the soil.

The validation of the climate objectives by SBTi confirms that Verstegen's policies are truly contributing to a sustainable future. A growing number of customers recognize the importance of this validation and want to take steps together towards a more sustainable food chain. This is a positive development that Verstegen strongly supports, but it is also essential for making a collective impact.

Marianne van Keep, CSO at Verstegen: "Today we take another important step in our sustainability journey: our climate goals have been officially validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative. We know that our accelerated targets for scopes 1 and 2 are challenging, but with our current efforts, we will definitely get there. The biggest challenge lies in scope 3. We can't achieve this alone; collaboration is essential. That's why we invite our supply chain partners to accelerate the transition together, share data, and work together towards a sustainable future. Only through long-term collaboration and shared responsibility can we achieve real change. This is how we truly want to make a difference in this world."

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