ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

The protection of resources (land, water and air) is inextricably bound to the quality production of San Daniele Prosciutto. Their protection is crucial insofar as the quality of life and the health of local inhabitants strictly depend on them. This is why the Consortium is committed to reducing the industry’s environmental impact in terms of energy efficiency enhancement and the reduced consumption of resources, working in synergy with its members, guiding them towards the sustainable management of prosciutto production processes.

Specifically, the Consortium’s commitment extends to the following fields:

• Waste water disposal – The waste water disposal plant, connected to 16 manufacturing and 2 service companies, guarantees inbound and outbound water treatment. In 2023, 411,050 m³ of water were withdrawn, 286,901 m³ of which managed and discharged.
• Waste management – the Consortium provides a spent solid salt and brine recovery service. This material originates from processing and is treated and reused for other industrial purposes, true to the principles of circular economy. The Consortium also coordinates a collective service for paper, plastic and glass collection and management. In 2023, a total of 8,935 tons of non-hazardous waste (solid salt, brine, urban waste, cleaning and purification sludge) were collected.
• Energy and emissions – The industry is strongly committed to improving its energy practices, with the aim of reducing consumptions through efficiency enhancement interventions.  Moreover, in 2024 a new exploratory Life Cycle Assessment – LCA project was initiated to assess the environmental impacts of San Daniele Prosciutto, involving consortium member companies and following the guidelines of ISO 14040/44* reference standards.