Gold Member Case Study - Lir Chocolates
Founded in Dublin in 1987, Lir Chocolates crafts premium, hand-finished chocolates in Co. Meath, blending traditional recipes with innovative flavours and a strong commitment to sustainability.
Sustainability Achievements
In 2024, Lir Chocolates reduced waste per unit of output, surpassing its milestone target by 7%, through reusable containers, surplus food donations, and enhanced composting initiatives.
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Targets Reported
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Exemplary Targets
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Awarded Gold Membership
In 2024, Lir Chocolates made strong progress in reducing waste across its operations, decreasing total waste per unit of output from 0.118 t/t in 2023 to 0.0922 t/t. This performance exceeded the company’s milestone target by 7% and reflects its commitment to sustainable production practices.
Two key initiatives contributed to this achievement. First, the company transitioned to using reusable bulk containers for transporting and storing caramel, eliminating the need for single-use plastic buckets. Second, Lir Chocolates partnered with FoodCloud to donate surplus food, ensuring that edible waste is redirected to those in need rather than sent to landfill.
In addition to reducing general waste, Lir Chocolates introduced a new five-year target in 2024 to cut food waste in the factory by 20%, aiming for a 4% reduction per tonne annually from a 2020 baseline. The company established a baseline of 0.0089 tonnes of food/chocolate waste per tonne of output and plans to maintain this level in 2025 as a foundation for future reductions.
To support this new target, Lir Chocolates implemented compostable bags and bins across its facility, further enhancing its waste segregation and composting capabilities. Continued collaboration with FoodCloud also ensures that any surplus food is put to good use, reinforcing the company’s commitment to circular economy principles. Lir Chocolates has also signed the EPA’s Food Waste Charter, aligning its efforts with national goals to reduce food waste.
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