Carbon Accounting as the Foundation for an Informed Climate Transition
About this project
From Voluntary Initiatives to a Leader in Sustainability
The Belgian food group Vandemoortele Group aimed to achieve its sustainability ambitions with robust CO₂ data and objective certifications. What started as a temporary search for a carbon accounting project manager evolved into a strategic partnership.
Today, Mantis coordinates CO₂ data collection for over 30 European sites. Simultaneously, we guided them to a platinum EcoVadis medal: the highest distinction awarded to only 1% of companies worldwide. Additionally, we are taking a leading role in the development and implementation of a climate transition plan.
“Mantis is a down-to-earth partner for us, thinking along with us in both the short and long term. Pragmatic, efficient, and with technical expertise. Their experience makes a difference, both strategically and in the field.”
The Challenge
Taking a leading role in the food sector
In 2015, Vandemoortele launched its first sustainability strategy. A strong initiative, but at the time, too non-committal to make a real impact. The real turning point came in 2021, when the fourth generation passed the torch to the fifth. The new generation sharpened its focus: they wanted to take a leading role in sustainability within the sector.
This ambition translated into concrete objectives: Science Based Targets in accordance with the Paris Agreement, full CSRD compliance, and an EcoVadis score among the world's best.
To achieve these goals, the foundation first needed to be in order: accurate CO₂ data from all production sites and a robust reporting system.
Complexity at scale
With dozens of sites spread across Europe, collecting reliable energy and emissions data was a significant logistical challenge. Each site had its own systems, measurement methods, and reporting habits. Add to that several major acquisitions, and the complexity doubled.
“Implementing carbon accounting, coordinating EcoVadis, preparing CSRD reports... We really had to consider what we wanted to do ourselves and what we could outsource.”
The Solution
Engaging external expertise where it counts
Vandemoortele was looking for a temporary project manager for carbon accounting but found much more in Mantis: a strategic partner who brought both the technical depth and the pragmatic approach it needed.
The collaboration was built on two main pillars:
Group-level carbon accounting. Implementation of a management system for CO₂ data capture that connects all European sites, compliant with GHG Protocol and ISO 14064. This forms the backbone for all sustainability reporting.
EcoVadis Certification. From correctly completing the questionnaire to strategic optimization: full guidance to climb from silver to platinum.
Our Approach
Hands-on solutions with measurable impact
We immediately tackled the biggest pain points: eliminating bottlenecks and automating processes. This data capture served two purposes: accurate carbon accounting and providing the right data for the EcoVadis process. Meanwhile, the internal team regained capacity for strategic priorities.
Dozens of hours saved per month through streamlined data collection.
Bottlenecks in data streams resolved that caused delays for years
New reporting software implemented that automatically consolidates data
Vandemoortele got what they were looking for: experts who worked independently, connected departments, and achieved tangible results. Without unnecessary reports or meetings. With direct lines of communication to senior consultants, not through intermediaries or junior staff.
“By simplifying and structuring the entire data process, Mantis uncovered many bottlenecks. They handle the heavy lifting, making everything manageable for our teams.”
The results
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• Subproject 1: Carbon Accounting
Streamlined CO2 Data Capture at +30 European Sites
The mission: to implement an integrated monitoring and management system for energy and CO₂ data across more than 30 production sites.
The approach: we rolled out a data capture management system site by site. Each location received tailored work packages, training, and support.
The result: Vandemoortele can now monitor its CO₂ footprint in real-time, identify trends, and make data-driven investment decisions.
• Sub-project 2: EcoVadis
Achieving the highest level in sustainability certification: EcoVadis Platinum
The mission: not only to retain the silver EcoVadis medal, but to significantly improve it to strengthen the competitive position.
The approach: complete peace of mind throughout the process. From data collection to gap analysis, audit preparation, and optimization.
The result: in one year, the score increased from 65 to 80 points, earning a platinum medal and a spot in the top 1% worldwide.
The results
Measurable impact on all fronts
30+ sites automated. A robust data capture system that replaces countless Excel sheets with one central platform.
EcoVadis Platinum: from 65 to 80 points. In three years, Vandemoortele rose from no medal to the top 1% worldwide. An accolade that was well-received by major clients.
Successful CSRD audit. The external audit by Deloitte was successfully completed. Years of data improvement bore fruit.
Competitive advantage. In tenders, Vandemoortele consistently scores high on sustainability criteria. A strong competitive advantage in a competitive food industry.
Solid foundation for 50% growth. A recent acquisition made the company 50% larger. A solid foundation is already in place to quickly integrate new sites.
Magnet for talent. Their efforts are a strong draw for new talent. At the same time, internal awareness of sustainability continues to grow.
Make sustainability measurable for greater impact.
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