Millions of tons of plastic choke our landfills and oceans, a stark reminder of our unsustainable practices. Simultaneously, greenhouse gas emissions continue to trap heat and warm our planet, posing an existential threat. These interconnected challenges demand immediate and decisive action.
In this exclusive dialogue with TheCSRUniverse, Ms. Aditi Handa, Co-founder & Head Chef of The Baker's Dozen, a distinguished thought leader in the food industry, unveils her steadfast commitment to addressing pressing environmental issues. Through a lens of dedication and innovation, she provides insights into the company's transformative journey toward a more sustainable future, emphasizing successful partnerships, cutting-edge technologies, and a visionary outlook for systemic change.
Ms. Handa details The Baker's Dozen's strides toward plastic neutrality, an achievement that stands as an inspiration for others. Furthermore, she explores the company's innovative use of AI-based demand forecasting for reduced food waste, demonstrating a commitment to resource efficiency. Looking ahead, Ms. Handa envisions a future where circular practices are the norm, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in business models.
For more insights, read the full interview below.
Q&A
Q. In your pursuit of environmental sustainability, how do partnerships with 'Recykal,' 'Wastelink,' and 'Climes' contribute to shaping a greener future?"
A. Our collaborations with 'Recykal,' 'Wastelink,' and 'Climes' are integral to our commitment to environmental sustainability. 'Recykal' helps us manage and recycle plastic waste from our product packaging, contributing significantly to our goal of achieving plastic neutrality. Through 'Wastelink' and 'Climes,' we effectively offset carbon emissions generated from our food returns and supply chain operations. These partnerships are not just about meeting sustainability goals but also about being responsible environmental stewards. They have a profound impact by reducing our environmental footprint and driving positive change in the industry.
Q. One of your targets is to achieve plastic neutrality by recycling the equivalent amount of plastic you employ. Take us through the roadmap you have planned to achieve this with potential impact?
A. Our roadmap for achieving plastic neutrality is multi-faceted. It involves reducing the use of plastic in our packaging, actively promoting recycling among our customers, and responsibly managing the plastic waste generated by our products. We're continuously exploring alternative packaging materials that are eco-friendly and sustainable. Additionally, we aim to recycle the equivalent amount of plastic we use, contributing to a circular economy, and we have already turned plastic neutral this year. This initiative has the potential to create a substantial positive impact by reducing plastic pollution and conserving valuable resources.
Q. Waste food management has become one of the biggest concerning areas of sustainability. Tell us about the impact you have been able to create in this area?
A. Waste food management is indeed a significant concern for sustainability. We've implemented rigorous processes to minimize food waste at every stage of our operations. For instance, we use an AI based demand forecasting model which helps us make better predictions and hence reduce excess supply, resulting in reduced wastage. By taking such measures, we have made considerable strides in reducing food waste, aligning with our broader sustainability goals and making a positive impact on the environment.
Q. Though every brand is contributing towards environmental sustainability, however, which are the most pressing areas that need immediate action and why?
A. While every brand is making strides in environmental sustainability, several pressing areas demand immediate attention. First, plastic waste management remains a critical issue globally, as it poses a severe threat to our ecosystems. Second, carbon emissions, particularly in the food industry, need to be urgently addressed to combat climate change. Lastly, sustainable sourcing of ingredients, especially in a country as diverse as India, is essential to protect biodiversity and promote ethical practices.
Q. What role does sustainability play in guiding The Baker Dozen's product design?
A. I felt the time had come for The Baker’s Dozen as a brand to have a facet to its personality beyond a great product and customer experience. Environmental sustainability is something that the team feels very passionately about. We have started this journey by being plastic neutral and having green deliveries but it’s getting further extended into our daily operations going from ensuring reduction of paper, plastic, food in production to optimizing supply chain and demand forecasting.
Q. The transition to a circular economy is gaining prominence. How do you foresee its future?
A. The transition to a circular economy is undoubtedly gaining prominence. In the future, we foresee a shift towards a more sustainable and responsible approach to production and consumption. Circular practices will become the norm, fostering a more resource-efficient and less wasteful economy. This transition is crucial for the long-term well-being of our planet.
Q. As a country where do you see India in its efforts towards a clean and renewable energy transition? Is the pace aligned with the urgent need for sustainable development?
A. India has achieved remarkable progress in advancing its initiatives for clean and renewable energy. The country has set ambitious targets for renewable energy capacity, particularly in solar and wind power. However, the pace of this transition needs to accelerate further to meet the growing energy demands while reducing carbon emissions. I think we as individuals need to realize the value of the role we play as individuals and as part of a company. We collectively can create a massive impact which would further accelerate the initiatives taken by the government.
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