ΜΠΑΡΜΠΑ ΣΤΑΘΗΣ

Barba Stathis, as a leading force in the agri-food sector, recognizes that sustainability is not a choice but a responsibility. With deep awareness of the interconnected relationship between food, nature, and humanity, the company places environmental responsibility at the heart of its strategy. It embraces the principles of the circular economy and responsible waste and organic residue management.

As part of its ESG strategy, Barba Stathis is committed to achieving and maintaining zero landfill waste by 2030. This goal is supported by initiatives such as the full transition to 100% recyclable packaging by 2026, the adoption of advanced energy and wastewater management methods, and the implementation of the internationally recognized Science Based Targets initiative to reduce its carbon footprint. The company continuously upgrades its technological infrastructure to reduce energy consumption and optimize water use, leveraging resources from renewable energy sources. Furthermore, it ensures its workforce receives ongoing training on best practices for waste management, aiming to transition to a Net Zero model by 2050.

Barba Stathis' circular economy and waste management initiatives target a broad audience, including its employees, local communities, suppliers and partners, as well as public institutions, municipalities, and regional authorities.

Through systematic training, employees are sensitized to waste reduction and proper resource management. Collaboration between the ESG Committee and the Department of Industrial Development & Technological Infrastructure strengthens the implementation of best practices. At the same time, Barba Stathis sets an example in the circular economy space, applying green practices that inspire and mobilize stakeholders and other key industry players. Its efforts foster collaboration with local authorities, shaping a sustainable model with positive impact on society and the environment.

The initiative is carried out annually and is systematically reported in the company’s Corporate Responsibility Reports since 2016. The data presented here refers to the period 01/2024–12/2024.

Barba Stathis has adopted a zero-waste model, systematically managing plant residues from its industrial activity. In 2024, it processed 4,894.08 tons of plant residues: 2,183 tons were used for cattle feed, while 2,711.08 tons were transformed—through partnerships with licensed entities—into biogas and soil enhancers.

This strategy reflects the company’s dedication to environmental responsibility and its active contribution to circular economy principles. Additionally, Barba Stathis has developed a comprehensive, multi-tiered approach to responsible waste management, prioritizing prevention and circularity.

The company invests in waste prevention via regular employee training, focusing on recycling and optimal resource use. It applies circularity practices throughout production and distribution, including material reuse, repair, and donations to nonprofit organizations.

Education is a cornerstone, cultivating awareness of circular economy principles across all stakeholders in the production chain. With consistency and pioneering action, Barba Stathis places circular economy at the center of its strategic focus, embodying its role as a responsible corporate entity.

Barba Stathis partners with external certified and licensed entities for the management of plant residues, reinforcing the application of a zero-food-waste model.

Employee engagement is a core pillar of Barba Stathis’ strategy on environmental responsibility and circular economy. Through regular training, staff are sensitized on waste prevention, resource optimization, and recycling practices. Employees actively contribute to circularity measures such as material reuse, organic composting, and proper use of recycling bins. Their involvement enhances impact and nurtures a culture of environmental awareness at all company levels.

The initiative is implemented at Barba Stathis' industrial facilities in the Sindos Industrial Area, where all collection, management, and utilization practices take place to promote circular economy and environmental responsibility.

Barba Stathis’ circular economy and waste management initiative has delivered measurable results, substantially influencing its workforce, suppliers, local communities, and public institutions.

In 2024 alone, the company processed 4,894.08 tons of plant residues: 2,183 tons were used for livestock feed, while 2,711.08 tons were converted into biogas and soil enhancers, completing the cycle of circularity. Total waste output dropped by 4.6% compared to 2023, and 99.9% of it was non-hazardous—affirming the company’s responsible environmental approach.

Through educational activities and consistent communication, environmental awareness was strengthened among employees and partners, driving broader adoption of sustainable practices and reinforcing local sustainability efforts.

Barba Stathis continues to pursue environmental performance improvement and systematic implementation of circular economy principles, creating long-term value for society and the Greek economy.

Barba Stathis systematically invests in waste collection and management practices from its industrial operations, aiming to reduce environmental impact and strengthen circular economy implementation. Through effective waste management techniques, it continuously minimizes waste disposal volumes, aligning with its 2030 zero-landfill goal.

Notably, since 2021, Barba Stathis has earned the Zero Waste to Landfill (ZWTL-EU1) certification for its frozen and fresh vegetable production facilities from EUROCERT—becoming a pioneer in the food sector for this recognition. This highlighted its environmentally responsible stance and commitment to sustainability principles guiding its business operations to this day.

In 2024, the company reduced total waste volume by 4.6% compared to 2023, reaching 6,531.5 tons—99.9% of which was classified as non-hazardous, significantly mitigating environmental and health risks. Of that, 61% was recovered or recycled, 33% used for animal feed, and 335.9 tons of packaging (paper, plastic, wood) were recovered, preventing landfill disposal. Moreover, 59.8% of mixed municipal waste was converted into biogas, while 97.5% of non-consumable materials became biogas and the remaining 2.5% soil enhancers.

Barba Stathis continuously educates and raises awareness among employees, promoting sustainable practices throughout the production process and enhancing efficiency, compliance with international standards, and long-term competitiveness.