Mars Petcare Thailand wins at FMCG Asia Awards 2024 for regenerative agriculture initiative
It has transferred knowledge to local farmers on regenerative agriculture, enhancing soil fertility and reducing GHG emissions from farming.
Mars Petcare Thailand took home the Eco-friendly Initiative of the Year - Thailand category win at the prestigious FMCG Asia Awards 2024 for its innovative Regenerative Corn and Rice Agriculture Project (RECARP) project launched in November 2023 that aligns with the company’s ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 50% by 2030 and to achieve net zero GHG emissions across its entire value chain by 2050.
The primary objective of Mars’s RECARP initiative is to promote the adoption of regenerative agriculture practices in the cultivation of corn and rice, which are essential raw materials for pet food production. It involves extensive training for local farmers in regenerative agriculture techniques such as soil nutrient management, water management, farm residue management, and sustainable farming practices.
This is one of the many steps on the way to Mars Net Zero commitment: by transitioning to regenerative practices, Mars Petcare Thailand aims to reduce climate footprints whilst supporting environmental sustainability and the well-being of farming communities. It also aims to improve the quality and productivity of corn and rice yields to ensure that farmers are motivated to sustainably maintain the recommended practices through better income.
With the successful adoption of these practices, farmers will have reduced their carbon footprint in corn and rice farming by 43% and 27%, respectively, compared to conventional methods.
As of September 2024, the RECARP initiative has completed identifying practices to lower GHG emissions in corn and rice farming. A total of 193 farmers participated in the first two training sessions out of a total of three on climate change and agriculture, land levelling technology, drip irrigation systems, and fertiliser usage based on individual soil test results. These farmers are set to undergo one more training session by the end of the year, focussing on additional farming techniques and documenting their practices for impact monitoring.
At the same time, seven demonstration farms have been set up in the programme areas to provide hands-on learning opportunities about new technologies and their effects on crop quality and yield. Farmers would also have access to programme field experts for guidance and can exchange knowledge with peers via social media.
A significant step toward creating a sustainable and climate-resilient future, RECARP has been formalised through a memorandum of understanding with six key local partners, including five corn suppliers and one rice supplier in Nakhon Ratchasima and Lopburi provinces. Its partnership with German development agency Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH (GIZ) has also enhanced the project’s impact by leveraging a broad network of farmers and experts, thus enhancing the climate resilience and livelihoods of rice and corn farmers in Thailand.
“The RECARP programme is notable for its innovative approach to tackling environmental issues, its emphasis on collaboration, and its commitment to sustainable agricultural practices. This initiative showcases Mars Petcare Thailand's leadership in fostering positive change for a more sustainable future,” the company said.
Organised by Retail Asia, the FMCG Asia Awards 2024 celebrates the most outstanding companies in Asia’s FMCG industry, recognising exceptional products, innovative initiatives, and remarkable projects.
The FMCG Asia Awards is presented by Retail Asia Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2025 awards programme and be acclaimed for your company's exceptional products or initiatives in the FMCG industry, please contact Jane Patiag at [email protected].
