22 April is Earth Day 2021 – Why it matters for Northern Ireland’s retailers, suppliers, producers and customers

22 April is Earth Day 2021 – Why it matters for Northern Ireland’s retailers, suppliers, producers and customers
22nd April is Earth Day - Why it matters for retailers and their customers

Thursday 22nd April is Earth Day – the annual global event to raise awareness and shine attention on the planet. At the heart of driving sustainability and making changes are retailers, forecourts, suppliers, food and drink producers – and customers.

In Northern Ireland, customers are seeking out sustainable brands and products. They care about packaging and waste, about sustainability and responsibility in reducing the impact of climate change.

It’s 51 years since the first Earth Day in 1970 to educate and activate the environmental movement worldwide.

While food and drink producers and suppliers are facing up to their collective responsibilities, climate change is already seriously affecting many crops and food production around the planet. Rising temperatures are making it harder to produce staple grains across the globe. Fruit trees are struggling to bloom after warmer winters.

Staple crops like rice, corn and wheat are already impacted. Fruits such as peaches, cranberries; fish and seafood such as sardines and scallops; almonds; and even coffee and wine production will be hit by higher temperatures and climate change.

Northern Ireland’s food and drink producers, food distributors and retailers are all striving to do ‘their bit’. Climate change, sustainability, corporate responsibility and the environment are at the heart of most Northern Ireland companies – because they care, and so do their customers.

‘Green light’

It’s not just about reducing packaging and food waste. Renewable sources of energy to power the economy are centre stage.  In advance of Earth Day, the ‘green light’ was given to a renewable energy planning review for Northern Ireland.

Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon saidAddressing the climate emergency is one of my key priorities, as is supporting the economy and a green recovery from this pandemic. This review of renewable and low carbon energy development will also take account of the Executive’s emerging energy strategy.

Planning policy

Acknowledging the range of factors and contrasting opinions on this important topic, Minister Mallon said:“The planning system is where different and opposing interests often meet and there will be opportunities as the review progresses to hear from everyone who has an interest in this policy area. I want to ensure regional planning policy for renewable and low carbon energy truly furthers sustainable development and delivers in the long term public interest.

Policy and Legislation is vital to the future of the planet, everyone has a responsibility to do ‘their bit’ for the sake of future generations – that’s why every single retailer, supplier, food, drink producer in Northern Ireland is taking their responsibilities on board – but customers need to do their bit too. Make sure your forecourt and convenience store makes note of Earth Day 2021 – then make every day, Earth day.