Cranswick Country Foods has become the first agri-food company in Northern Ireland to achieve carbon neutral certification.
Cranswick's Ballymena agri-food manufacturing site is the first in its sector in the province to achieve certification PAS 2060.
It follows a three-year investment in a range of efficiency and carbon cutting projects.
The key milestone is a critical step in the site’s journey to net zero - a goal it aims to reach by 2040.
To achieve carbon neutrality Cranswick have switched to 100% renewable electricity to new LED lighting, and heat recovery systems.
Cranswick’s achievement is a great asset for NI as we prepare for the UK hosting of COP26 in Glasgow this November.
Speaking at a visit to Cranswick, farming minister Edwin Poots said the processor was 'leading the way' with green changes.
“We all have a role to play in order to protect and enhance our environment in a sustainable way," he said.
“Cranswick’s achievement is a great asset for NI as we prepare for the UK hosting of COP26 in Glasgow this November.
"I commend its commitment to a net zero journey and look forward to celebrating the next milestone in this important pathway."