Abu Dhabi: Al Dahra today published its 2024 Sustainability Report, detailing progress across environmental and social commitments while navigating increased weather volatility that impacted operations in several key markets.
According to Emirates News Agency, the report highlights significant milestones, including the generation of the first carbon credits from Romania operations and the expansion of regenerative farming practices to 35% of global operations, putting the company on track to meet its 2030 sustainability targets. "This report demonstrates our commitment to transparent reporting and measurable progress," said Group CEO Arnoud van den Berg. "Despite climate challenges, we've continued advancing our regenerative agriculture programme and achieving meaningful reductions in our environmental footprint."
Key findings from the 2024 report include Romania operations issuing the first carbon credits through soil sequestration and the expansion of regenerative agriculture to 35% of farmland, with a target of 80% by 2030. Total emissions were reduced by 7% to 435,000 tonnes CO2e despite operational challenges, and water efficiency improved to 376 cubic metres per tonne of production. Additionally, organic fertilizer use increased to 6% of total application, and women in senior leadership reached 14%, with a target of 18% by 2030.
The report details how challenging weather conditions led to a 5% increase in emission intensity as the company required additional energy for irrigation and cooling systems. However, Al Dahra maintained its commitment to transparency by reporting all metrics accurately. Technology investments drove efficiency gains, with Dragon Line irrigation pivots installed in Egypt and capacitive soil sensors deployed in Morocco. The company also completed its first end-to-end logistics emissions mapping exercise.
Al Dahra's approach to sustainability reporting aligns with European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), preparing the company for evolving disclosure requirements in its key markets. The 2024 Sustainability Report is Al Dahra's fifth annual publication, marking years of consistent disclosure as the company works toward net-zero emissions by 2050.
Al Dahra operates across 13 countries with over 3,100 employees, specialising in sustainable farming and commodity trading.