Always sustainable.
Our sustainability activities
As a modern producer cooperative, we are aware of our responsibility for future generations. Sustainability is a matter close to our hearts and firmly anchored in our corporate vision. The aim is to live up to the triad of economic, ecological and social responsibility today and in the future.
The planning and coordination of the measures is carried out by sustainability management in collaboration with the sustainability team, which is made up of sustainability officers from the various business areas and the management. In addition, all employees at ELO complete sustainability training that imparts knowledge on current topics in this area.
In our work, we are guided by the ZNU Standard for Sustainable Business and successfully passed our first certification audit in 2024.
Measurable Sustainability
In order to be able to closely track the progress in implementing the sustainability program, we measure it. To do this, we define project goals, concrete measures and key figures to create transparency on the path to achieving the goals. The key figures include economic, ecological, social and ethical criteria.
Ecological Sustainability
Climate and environment
We don't just want to grow and sell the best fruit and vegetables, we also want to keep the impact on the climate and the environment as low as possible. This starts with sustainable soil management and extends to the use of green electricity.
Our goal : We are currently (2024) developing a climate protection strategy for Scope 1 and 2 in line with the 1.5 degree target based on the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). In this strategy, we will set ourselves concrete goals and back them up with measures and key figures - for a scientifically based reduction in emissions.
The less garbage, the better
Garbage is a huge problem for the environment and we do everything we can to prevent it from being created. That is why waste separation in our distribution center has long been a matter of course for us. And of course we will continue to work hard to reduce our waste and to reduce residual waste quota.
Our goal : We will reduce our residual waste quota by 20 percent by 2027.
Economically
We focus on quality
We attach great importance to the quality and safety of our products. Production follows the QS / GLOBALG.AP guidelines and is continued through an intensive quality management system (QS, IFS; BIO; Regionalfenster). Regular, independent inspections by the Lower Saxony Chamber of Agriculture (Horticulture) confirm the excellent quality of our products. We are constantly developing our quality management. We also rely on honest communication with our customers and business partners.
Our goal : To further reduce the average complaint rate – by 10% by 2027
Social
Sustainably Satisfied Employees We are firmly rooted in the region and position ourselves as a reliable and attractive employer.
The people who work for us are close to our hearts. To ensure a healthy and supportive work environment, we offer the following benefits, among others:
Flexible Working Models & Modern Workplace Even within a seasonal operation, work-life balance and family-friendliness are important values for ELO. For example, all ELO screen workstations are equipped with height-adjustable desks, and the option to work remotely is actively promoted.
On-Site Catering A balanced diet is essential for well-being. Therefore, we offer discounted healthy meals, free coffee, and fruit. Additionally, our cafeteria has a water dispenser to ensure refreshment at any time.
Corporate Fitness & E-Bike Leasing In addition to the opportunity to participate in various health programs, sports activities, or stress management courses through EGYM Wellpass at participating fitness and wellness facilities, employees can also lease an e-bike through our leasing partner.
Team Building & Events To strengthen cohesion at ELO and promote a positive corporate culture, various events take place annually, such as a May cycling tour and a Christmas party.
Holiday Pay, VWL & Company Pension Scheme All permanent employees receive holiday pay of the same amount in July. We offer capital-forming benefits and enable all permanent employees to take out a company pension scheme after completing their probationary period.
To understand the needs and concerns of our employees, we will conduct regular employee satisfaction surveys starting in 2024. These surveys are based on our cultural assessment conducted in 2023 and the corporate values derived from it.
Our Goal: In 2023, we achieved an employee satisfaction rating of 4.5*. Given the progress made since then, we aim to achieve an average satisfaction score of 2* by 2025. The measures already taken form a promising foundation on which we will continue to build to steadily increase employee satisfaction.
*6-point scale from 1: very satisfied to 6: completely dissatisfied.
We are committed to the region
It is important to us to be socially involved in our community. We therefore regularly donate to regional organizations and projects and will continue to make an active contribution to supporting and promoting our region.
Code of Conduct
In order to implement our vision, we integrate defined principles and guidelines into our daily actions. Our code of conduct provides a framework for this and reflects our values.
We will be happy to answer your questions about our sustainability management at nachhaltigkeit@elo-online.de .
