HECK! Food Invests in Solar Energy to Drive Sustainability Efforts
Bedale-based HECK! Food has taken a significant step towards sustainability by investing in solar energy production at its headquarters in Kirklington.
The company has recently installed 433 solar electricity panels, which are capable of generating 200,000 kWh per year. This contribution amounts to 20% of the factory’s total energy consumption, marking a substantial move towards reducing their carbon footprint.
HECK! co-founder expressed pride in the new installation, stating that they are committed to making their factory operations more sustainable and supporting their journey to net zero. The new solar panels will enable the company to save 45 tonnes of carbon annually, reflecting their dedication to reducing environmental impact.
This green initiative has been significantly supported by a £49,950 grant from the UK government, as part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, covering a portion of the total £150,000 investment.
The chief executive of North Yorkshire Council praised the project, highlighting the importance of supporting local manufacturers in their decarbonisation efforts.
They expressed that It is brilliant to see this grant have such a positive impact in supporting HECK! Food to install solar panels. Manufacturers of quality products like HECK! are an important part of the economy, and it is vital they’re supported to reach net zero.
In addition to the solar panels, HECK! is proactively engaging in a variety of sustainability initiatives. The company has launched the HECK! “Care Code,” a comprehensive programme aimed at promoting health, environment, community, and kindness.
The co-founder emphasised that this four-pronged approach not only leads to a better HECK! but also contributes to a better world, with their Care Code standing for ‘Health, Environment, Community and Kindness.’
What’s more, they are quite unique in the industry as they make all their sausages, meatballs, and burgers at their HECK! Factory, making them the only premium brand that produces their own food.
HECK! has committed to transparency in its sustainability journey, sharing progress and setting measurable goals. Over the past three years, the company has measured its Scope 1 and 2 emissions, achieving a commendable 30% reduction.
They have also started measuring Scope 3 emissions to identify further reduction opportunities. Scope 1 and 2 emissions encompass direct emissions from owned or controlled sources and indirect emissions from the generation of purchased energy, respectively.
Scope 3 emissions include all other indirect emissions that occur in a company’s value chain. The company’s first annual impact report, set to be published this year, will chart their climate impact across the supply chain.
This report will provide a detailed account of their progress and future plans, underscoring their commitment to a transparent and accountable approach to sustainability.
Furthermore, HECK! has pledged to continue working closely with their consumers and retail customers to showcase their ongoing efforts in reducing emissions and promoting sustainable practices.
In conclusion, HECK! Food’s investment in solar energy and its comprehensive sustainability initiatives underscore its commitment to reducing environmental impact and leading the industry in sustainable practices.
With the support of government grants and a dedicated approach to sustainability, HECK! continues to pave the way towards a greener future for the food manufacturing sector. Their efforts not only contribute to the well-being of the environment but also set a precedent for other companies in the industry to follow.
News Credits: Sausages powered by sunshine…HECK! Food invests in sustainability initiatives
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