Romagnoli is committed to reducing its environmental impact, cutting water consumption and saving resources
On 22 March, we celebrate World Water Day, an annual event organised by the United Nations (UN) to highlight the importance of water and the need to manage water resources sustainably. It was celebrated for the first time in 1993, in line with the recommendations of the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. A specific theme is chosen every year for World Water Day in order to raise awareness among the public and to promote concrete actions for addressing water-related challenges, such as saving water and preventing pollution. The theme of World Water Day 2024 is “Water for Peace”. The worsening impacts of climate change and the growing population are showing how urgent it is to protect and preserve this delicate yet essential resource for life on Earth. Public health and prosperity, food systems and environmental integrity all depend on a well-functioning and fairly managed water cycle.
Water consumption around the world varies greatly from region to region and depends on various factors, such as the availability and management practices of water resources, the climate and economic development. Water is undeniably important for farming, but its supply is increasingly at risk due to climate change and the higher demand caused by the world’s growing population. It is therefore crucial to promote sustainable agriculture that targets water efficiency to face the challenges linked to the conditions mentioned above. By adopting sustainable farming practices and using innovative technologies, farmers can play a key role in guaranteeing food security and preserving water resources for generations to come.
Romagnoli F.lli has always been involved on the front line to ensure that it contains or reduces the environmental impact of its business, including by cutting water consumption and by applying techniques to save resources at production sites. As growing potatoes is exposed to the risks connected to climate change and variability, this company from Bologna has actually implemented new, more efficient structures and processes that help achieve environmental sustainability goals while also reducing company risks. For example, investments in the water and decanting system at the Molinella plant (BO) help recycle and reuse the water used during the processing phases of fruit and vegetables. Furthermore, 10.26 megalitres of water were used for preparation in 2022, a reduction of 22% from 2021.
In terms of research and development in the potato-growing sector, Field Potatoes-Friends of the Environment are the result of a field experiment from 2013 together with Legambiente. Low-pressure and high-efficiency irrigation systems were tested for growing potatoes, producing exceptional results. This experience led to the first high-quality Italian potato supply chain, where farmers, who are sensitive to environmental sustainability issues, adopt water-saving irrigation systems. These initiatives not only help preserve water resources, but often also result in economic benefits for companies by reducing their operating costs. Adopting a sustainable approach in agriculture is an investment in the well-being of present and future generations, so Romagnoli F.lli’s commitment will continue and expand in this direction.
Image: Canva