LAVAZZA GROUP'S STRATEGIES AND ACTIONS FOR A SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS

The coffee industry faces significant sustainability challenges driven by climate change, economic disparities, and evolving consumer expectations. This study examines how a manufacturing company can achieve carbon neutrality across its entire value chain (Scopes 1 to 3) while addressing supply chain vulnerabilities induced by climate change. Additionally, it explores how companies can safeguard biodiversity and the socio-economic well-being of stakeholders while mitigating environmental impact. The research adopts a single case study approach, focusing on the Lavazza Group, a global coffee manufacturer recognised for its sustainability leadership. The study draws on Lavazza Group’s Sustainability Reports and Lavazza Foundation’s Social Reports, supplemented by targeted consultations with company’s Sustainability Team members. The analysis evaluates Lavazza’s "Roadmap to Zero" strategy, which encompasses the measurement, reduction, and compensation of non-reducible greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, with particular focus on emissions reduction actions and the carbon insetting project in Colombia. This project integrate emissions compensation with socio-economic development, highlighting the role of regenerative agriculture and community-based climate resilience efforts. The findings indicate tangible improvements in environmental performance. Lavazza has enhanced energy efficiency, demonstrating a decline in energy consumption per ton of coffee produced, during the timeframe considered. Significant progress has also been achieved in packaging recyclability, waste recovery, and water conservation, reinforcing efforts to optimise resources use and minimise environmental impact. Furthermore, initiatives aimed at fair trade, equitable value distribution, and sustainable agricultural practices contribute to improved livelihoods for coffee farmers and biodiversity conservation. The study highlights how a sustainability strategy can support the transition toward carbon neutrality, integrating emission reduction measures with socio-environmental initiatives.