The financial aid will be delivered over a three-year period, with the project encompassing Norfolk, East Anglia and the Cam and Ely Ouse (CamEO).
The aim of the project is to identify farming initiatives across the region that improve water retention, reduce runoff, protect soils, enhance biodiversity and improve the resiliency of the surrounding environment.
This will be achieved via engagement with farmers and the implementation of appropriate management plans and interventions, which will ultimately seek to improve crop yields and quality over the short and longer term. The Norfolk and CamEO region has also been internationally recognised for its rare habitats and species.
Baker & Baker sources a number of raw ingredients directly and indirectly from the region, including cereals and sugar beet. As part of the partnership, the firm will also be sharing details of the project with its core suppliers that operate in the area.
In addition to the financial support, Baker & Baker has committed to set water-related targets, report on progress and invest in collective action to address water risk in their supply chain. To date, 66 businesses have committed to the Water Roadmap.
Nicholas Bevan, director for sustainability at Baker & Baker, commented: “We’re proud to support the Norfolk and CamEO water stewardship project, and we are looking forward to collaborating with stakeholders in the region in the years to come.
“This project will have a direct and positive impact on the sourcing of some of our key raw materials for a range of our bakery products, and so we’re particularly pleased to have identified a project that has such relevancy for our business.”
Meanwhile, WRAP specialist Vicky Pudner added: “It is fantastic to have the backing of Baker & Baker for this project. Our Water Roadmap, which sets out a vision and key pathways to address the challenges we collectively face in protecting critical water resources for food supply, for nature and for local communities, relies on the collaboration and participation from our members. Without water, there is no food. It is a resource which needs our protection, so we welcome Baker & Baker’s support.”
In other news, Heineken UK has announced plans to relocate its headquarters to a new site in Edinburgh.
