Environmental responsibility
We are aware of our environmental footprint. Responsible management of resources is a top priority at the Group level and at every ORIOR centre of competence.
The area of environmental responsibility comprises four key topics: “Climate change and energy”, “Resource efficiency and circular economy”, “Water” and “Biodiversity and ecosystems”. You can find here our ambitions within these topics and further information on our activities.
Material topic: Climate change and energy
According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), food production is responsible for around 30% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with agriculture, particularly livestock farming and arable farming, being the main contributors. Food processing, including manufacturing processes and cold chains, also contributes to these emissions. ORIOR is aware of this responsibility and is continuously working to reduce its carbon footprint along the entire value chain and cut energy consumption. To this end, we are in the process of developing and implementing ambitious, science-based climate targets.
One of our activities
ORIOR Climate Fund
Since 2025, an ORIOR climate fund has provided incentives for CO₂ reduction in the competence centres. It funds internal projects to reduce emissions within the entire ORIOR Group. The competence centres can apply for climate fund money for projects that demonstrably reduce CO₂ in the long term. The climate fund is fed by annual CO₂ contributions from the individual competence centres, which are based on their actual CO₂ emissions. This approach follows the polluter-pays principle, in which the financial contribution of the competence centres is directly proportional to their CO₂ emissions. In order to continuously increase the incentive to reduce emissions, the underlying CO₂ price will be increased annually.
Material topic: Resource efficiency and circular economy
One third of all food produced worldwide is lost between the field and the plate, impacting the environment and climate while reducing operational efficiency. ORIOR is continuously working to reduce food waste. Non-food-related waste also consumes valuable resources and causes environmental pollution through resource extraction and energy consumption. ORIOR therefore focuses on waste minimization and recycling in order to reduce the use of raw materials. Packaging extends the shelf life of food, but increases the consumption of resources and generates waste. ORIOR strives for a balance in order to optimize packaging and at the same time ensure the protection of food.
One of our activities
Food-saving measures
We have been streamlining our company processes and logistics for years in order to reduce the amount of waste we generate during production. In the case of semi-finished and finished products that are in perfect condition but can no longer be sold via normal sales channels, we responsibly dispose of them by donating them to partner organisations such as ”Tischlein deck dich”. Food waste is also an important criterion we consider when procuring new machinery.
Material topic: Water
Water is of central importance in the food industry. Agriculture accounts for almost 70% of global freshwater consumption, which is why ORIOR pays attention to sustainable cultivation when procuring raw materials. Considerable quantities of water are also required in food production, for example for cleaning and manufacturing processes. ORIOR is committed to reducing environmental impact by optimizing water usage and continually enhancing environmentally friendly wastewater management practices.
One of our activities
Saving water
We strive to reduce water consumption by constantly optimising our machinery and continuously improving our production processes. All of our employees attend training courses where they are made aware of the need to use water sparingly. The type of products we make and their manufacturing processes also impact water consumption, which is why this is taken into account in strategic decisions.
Material topic: Biodiversity & ecosystems
Globally, biodiversity faces significant threats from intensive agricultural practices, including deforestation, monoculture farming, and pesticide use. ORIOR recognizes its responsibility to reduce negative impacts throughout the value chain, primarily in the production of raw materials. The Group therefore supports sustainable cultivation methods along the supply chain and is committed to protecting biodiversity and preserving ecosystems as part of its sustainable supply chain management.
Product responsibility
Excellence in Food rests not only on our superb craftsmanship and the recipes and production processes, but also on the raw materials we use.
Social responsibility
Dedicated and entrepreneurial employees who make things happen, conduct themselves respectfully and assume responsibility are key to our success. We are committed to good working conditions, and providing attractive job and development opportunities.
Governance
Good corporate governance is key to the success of our company, as it promotes transparency, responsibility and ethical behaviour. This strengthens the trust of our stakeholders and promotes long-term stability for the company.
Sustainability at ORIOR
“The ORIOR Responsibility” is part of our core business and the prerequisite for Excellence in Food.
Sustainability Report
Inform yourself about relevant facts and figures in our newest Sustainability Report.
News from the sustainability front
Find out more about the projects and measures currently being implemented by the ORIOR competence centres in the areas of product responsibility, environmental responsibility and social responsibility.