Media release
Collaborative approach required to move industry from compliance mindset
For New Zealand beef to maintain or improve its standing on the world stage, sustainability will need to evolve from compliance and regulation to a more equitable discussion where all parties involved can contribute without the need to take sides or defend a position, says newly appointed Chair of the New Zealand Roundtable for Sustainable Beef, Grant Bunting.
“The recent approach where political point-scoring results in alienating stakeholders is not conducive to a successful outcome. The underlying principle of the roundtable philosophy is to stimulate discussion and identify solutions that naturally fit with all stakeholders’ objectives.”
The Roundtable for Sustainable Beef was launched in New Zealand in late 2019 on the back of the growing importance the world is placing on being able to spell out sustainability credentials across the supply chain.
The New Zealand Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (NZRSB) is about beef industry stakeholders from across the supply chain working together to position New Zealand as a leading producer of beef that is safe and produced in a way that is environmentally sound, socially responsible and economically viable.
“Countries around the world want their beef to be recognised as the best. We need to ensure we not only keep up with other countries, but we want to be world-leaders. As part of this process, we have defined the standards for a New Zealand setting and identified metrics for achieving those standards so they can be put into practice,” says Grant.
“We have some lofty goals but those who know me will know that if I’m involved there needs to be practical, achievable actions.
“The first step is to grow the membership so that we have as many industry stakeholders as possible represented.
“A united industry is a stronger industry which in turn benefits those involved today and in the future,” he says.
The founding members of the NZRSB are ANZCO Foods, Beef + Lamb New Zealand, Greenlea Premier Meats, Fonterra, McDonald’s, Silver Fern Farms, World Wildlife Fund for Nature and farmers.
AgResearch joined in early 2020. Anyone from the supply chain is able to join and can find out more at: www.nzsustainablebeef.co.nz
“The NZRSB, which is aligned to the Global Roundtable for Sustainable Beef, differs from other organisations active in this space because our members span the supply chain so we can take a more holistic approach to implementing the standards that will help us achieve the vision of New Zealand beef being recognised as the world’s most sustainable beef,” says Grant.
Grant Bunting, who is also the ANZCO Foods General Manager for Systems and Supply will lead the incorporated society until its first annual meeting in April 2021.
For more information please contact
Grant Bunting
NZRSB Chair
027 665 7616
grant.bunting@nzsustainablebeef.co.nz