Thai Union Group PCL has unveiled its much-anticipated 2023 Sustainability Report, showcasing the strides made in alignment with its ambitious SeaChange® 2030 sustainability strategy. The detailed report, accessible here, presents an exhaustive account of Thai Union’s initiatives, reiterating the Company’s steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and sustainable development.
“Thai Union’s commitment to sustainability is stronger than ever, and the progress we’ve made in 2023 is a testament to our dedication to leading positive change within the seafood industry,” enthused Thai Union Group CEO Thiraphong Chansiri. “Our SeaChange® 2030 strategy not only sets ambitious goals but also charts a clear course towards achieving them. We have a lot of work ahead of us, but I am immensely proud of the strides we’ve made and remain deeply committed to driving further improvements not just across our operations but the industry worldwide.”
In 2023, Thai Union’s efforts under the SeaChange® 2030 strategy resulted in several significant achievements:
- Reducing greenhouse gases: Achieved an 8.8 percent reduction in Scope 1 & 2 greenhouse gas emissions compared to 2022.
- Tuna monitoring: Increased the percentage of tuna purchased from vessels equipped with electronic monitoring and/or human observers from a 71 percent baseline in 2021 to an impressive 90 percent.
- Sustainable sourcing: Sourced 85 percent of the Company’s total tuna volume from fisheries that are either MSC-certified, undergoing MSC assessment, or participating in a credible Fishery Improvement Program, marking a 4 percent increase from 2022.
- Global environmental initiatives: Became a signatory to two ambitious global environmental initiatives – Ocean Breakthroughs and Transforming Our Food Systems at the UN 27th Conference of the Parties (COP27) on Climate Change.
- Shrimp Decarbonisation initiative: Launched the Shrimp Decarbonisation initiative in collaboration with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and Ahold Delhaize USA, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Human rights commitment: Published its Human Rights Risk Assessment and updated Human Rights Policy.
SeaChange® 2030, with its broad and aggressive goals, aims to drive global impact for both people and planet, actively supporting the accomplishment of 10 of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). These goals include a 42 percent reduction in Scope 1, 2, and 3 greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The company has pledged a THB 250 million (over USD 7 million) investment towards protecting and restoring critical ecosystems, implementing zero water discharge, zero waste to landfill, and zero food loss at its five key global facilities by 2030. Moreover, Thai Union aims to ensure 100 percent of its shrimp production minimizes ecosystem impact, extends its responsible wild-caught sourcing program to all key species, and provides a safe, equitable, and decent workplace.
“Each year, we push the boundaries of our industry in sustainability, and 2023 was no exception,” remarked Adam Brennan, Chief Sustainability Officer at Thai Union. “The advancements detailed in our latest Sustainability Report reflect our ongoing efforts to protect our oceans, support our communities, and ensure the long-term viability of our business. With SeaChange® 2030, we are well-positioned to continue this crucial work and inspire others to join us in these efforts.”
Thai Union’s relentless pursuit of positive change was once again recognized in 2023, with the Company being listed on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) for the 10th consecutive year. It was also ranked number one on the Seafood Stewardship Index for the third year in a row for its work towards the UN SDGs. Heading into early 2024, the Group achieved a B rating from the global environmental disclosure non-profit CDP for its commitment and transparency in addressing the challenges posed by climate change.
It’s incredible to see Thai Union making such significant strides in sustainability! Their commitment to reducing greenhouse gases and sustainable sourcing is commendable.
Absolutely, Sarah! But let’s not forget, many companies greenwash their efforts. How do we know these achievements aren’t exaggerated for PR?
Good point, EcoWarrior2020. We need to hold companies accountable. Transparency and third-party verification are key!
True, Kylie. Thai Union’s involvement with global initiatives and receiving recognition from DJSI and CDP offer some level of validation.
Fair enough. Let’s hope those recognitions are stringent enough to ensure real change. Still, we should all keep a watchful eye.
Reducing greenhouse gases by just 8.8% isn’t really that impressive, considering the urgency of the climate crisis. We need much faster action!
I agree, John. The reduction seems small when we see the bigger picture. Companies need to accelerate their efforts.
But let’s not dismiss even small steps. Every bit counts in the fight against climate change.
Sure, Annie. Small steps are better than no steps, but do we have the luxury of time for incremental progress?
Honestly, I don’t trust big corporations when they talk about sustainability. It’s all about profits at the end of the day.
I’m really impressed by their work on sustainable sourcing. If more companies followed their lead, we could make a huge difference!
Absolutely, Laura! Sustainable sourcing is crucial for the health of our oceans.
It’s easier said than done, Laura. Let’s see if they can maintain these standards long-term.
Their efforts in human rights sound promising too. Often overlooked but so critical!
I’ve always been skeptical of corporate sustainability reports. They can spin numbers any way they want.
True, James. We need more independent assessments to ensure these claims are genuine.
But independent assessments can be biased too. It’s a complex issue. We just need more transparency.
The Shrimp Decarbonisation initiative is a game-changer. Collaboration with NGOs and other companies can really amplify the impact.
Agreed, Teresa. Collaboration is key. But will all these parties stay committed?
That’s the hope, John. Only time will tell, but let’s stay optimistic and support these efforts.
Why should we care about Thai Union’s efforts? There are countless other global issues more pressing.
Thai Union’s focus on net-zero emissions by 2050 is ambitious. But why is the timeline so long? Isn’t it too late by then?
Unfortunately, making massive systemic changes takes time, Leonard. We need realistic deadlines, even if they seem far off.
I get that, Kate. It’s just frustrating knowing that time is of the essence.
I’m hopeful that initiatives like Ocean Breakthroughs can drive real action. Our oceans desperately need it.
Yes, GreenDreamer! We need bold initiatives to protect our planet’s lifeblood.
It’s great, but let’s not forget about the politicians and policies that need to support these initiatives.
A B rating from CDP isn’t something to brag about. They should aim for A ratings if they’re serious about climate change.
But Tom, a B rating is still noteworthy and shows they’re on the right track. Progress over perfection.
This report is a reminder that while companies can drive change, individuals also need to do their part. We can’t rely solely on big corporations.
Sounds good, but what are the hidden costs? Often these sustainability efforts displace costs in unexpected ways.
At least Thai Union is trying. Many companies don’t even bother pretending to be interested in sustainability.
I’m skeptical. It’s all nice on paper, but let’s see if they achieve these goals by 2030.
Their commitment to a zero waste to landfill goal by 2030 is quite ambitious. If they pull it off, it will be a major accomplishment.
I’m not convinced. Too many unanswered questions about their actual impact.
True, Jason. Transparency is everything. Without it, all these commitments hold little water.
But we can push for that transparency. Public pressure can lead to more openness.
Sustainability can’t just be a marketing strategy. We need authentic, impactful actions.