MKS0901016 Agriculture 09 A5 AW:: 30/4/09 10:24 Page 8
Environmentally friendly farming
In response to customers’ concerns, we have worked
hard to develop a leading position in reducing the use
of pesticides in food production. Since 2002, M&S has
banned a total of 70 pesticides worldwide. In addition we
have also extended our ‘Field to Fork’ scheme which sets
leading standards for fresh produce production to ensure
we are responding to customer concerns about the use of
pesticides, food safety and pay and treatment of workers.
We have also created an expert group of independent
pesticide reduction specialists. This group is available to help provide solutions to M&S
farmers around the world to further reduce pesticide residues in the foods they grow.
We have also introduced the new M&S Farm Environment Standard that forms part of our
Field to Fork scheme and has been written in partnership with organisations like LEAF
(Linking Environment and Farming) and the World Wildlife Fund, to establish an effective
way to monitor improvements in performance on reducing carbon footprints, water
footprints and conserving wildlife habitats so we know that the changes we are
implementing are making a real difference.
Sustainable raw materials
We are working closely with our suppliers to ensure sustainable and
responsible sourcing of raw materials. Our sustainable fishing
policy is a good example of this, making a difference to the
future of fishing on both a local and national level.
We work closely with government and industry
bodies who advise on how fish should be
caught or farmed, and how to
maintain stocks and safeguard the
industry’s future. All our fish and
seafood are from sustainable sources
and we work closely with fishermen,
meeting at agricultural shows to
discuss and advise on maintaining
freshness and quality when transporting
their catch. We also tour M&S processing
houses to ensure they meet our high standards.