The economic, social and environmental sustainability of the European tomato supply chain

Antonio Casana, CEO of Solana SpA and President of the vegetable product sector at UIF, discussed the European tomato industry's position as part of the world's second-largest producer, accounting for 22% of global production. He highlighted the challenges and opportunities faced by the industry, particularly in the context of the European Union's Green Deal and its goals for decarbonization and environmental sustainability.

Casana addressed the potential impacts of the EU's Farm to Fork strategy on tomato production, including the reduction of chemical use, loss of nutrients, and antimicrobials, as well as the promotion of organic farming. He also discussed the EU's efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with a target of reaching net-zero by 2050, and the use of the Emission Trading System (ETS) to achieve this goal.

The article also covered the European tomato industry's progress in reducing pollutants in water and its efforts towards economic, social, and environmental sustainability. Additionally, it mentioned the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive, which imposes due diligence obligations on certain companies regarding human rights and environmental impacts. Casana stressed the importance of fair competition, transparency, and sustainable practices in the European tomato industry, advocating for a future that balances economic growth with social and environmental responsibility.