Takeaways

• Oterra has launched its 2030 sustainability strategy, built around Nature, Climate, and People.
• The company targets no deforestation, responsible sourcing, and a 28% cut in total greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, backed by SBTi validation.
• Oterra links business growth in natural food colours to lower emissions, renewable energy, and carbon farming partnerships.

Danish-based natural colours specialist Oterra has unveiled its 2030 sustainability strategy, outlining a clear roadmap to reduce its environmental impact and strengthen responsible sourcing across its global operations.

The business, which supplies natural colours to the confectionery, bakery, and snacks sectors, said the strategy focuses on three interconnected pillars: Nature, Climate, and People. Together, they are designed to build a more resilient and transparent company while meeting rising demand for sustainably sourced ingredients.

Chief executive Martin Sonntag said the plan reflects the company’s belief that working with nature drives efficiency and long-term growth. He described the strategy as a roadmap to safeguard operations, protect supply chains, and create lasting value for customers and partners.

Read More: Definitions of Sustainability: A to Z Guide on Sustainability

Under the Nature pillar, Oterra has committed to no deforestation, water stewardship, and stronger biodiversity protection. The company recognizes that healthy soils, reliable water supplies, and resilient ecosystems are essential for securing the raw materials used in natural colours. Protecting these systems, it said, is both a responsibility and a strategic priority.

Climate is another central focus. Oterra has set SBTi-validated greenhouse gas targets and aims to reduce total greenhouse gas emissions by 28% by 2030. This forms part of its broader net-zero ambition. Since 2022, the company has reported reducing direct emissions by 20% and transitioning to 100% renewable electricity across its operations.

A key element of its decarbonization plan is “carbon farming.” Through partnerships with farmers and suppliers, Oterra plans to cut emissions at source by reducing the use of non-organic fertilizers and improving soil health so it can store more carbon. The company sees this as critical to decoupling business growth from greenhouse gas emissions, a challenge facing many food and ingredient manufacturers.

The People pillar includes targets for gender distribution, health and safety, business integrity, and responsible sourcing practices. According to Head of Global Sustainability Vera Karmeback, the three pillars are closely linked, with progress in one area reinforcing gains in another.

As consumer awareness around natural colours continues to grow, Oterra’s leadership believes sustainability will remain a competitive differentiator. By incorporating its 2030 sustainability strategy into operations and supply chain partnerships, the company aims to position itself as a long-term player in the evolving food ingredients market.

Also Read: The Growing Need for ESG Companies, Sustainability, and Climate Solutions

With measurable targets spanning renewable electricity, no deforestation, and responsible sourcing, Oterra’s roadmap signals a structured approach to balancing environmental stewardship with continued commercial expansion.

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Source: CONFECTIONERY PRODUCTION