Bord Bia is introducing a new trade label on food and drink exports which meet proven environmental production standards.
The new 'Origin Green' label will be carried on products from companies that have taken part in Bord Bia's sustainability programme.
Companies will be assessed on their usage of water and energy, carbon emissions and waste treatment.
Many supermarket chains are now demanding that food on their shelves be produced by environmentally friendly methods that can be credibly measured.
It is expected that all Irish food and drink exports will carry the 'Origin Green' label within four years. The label is an assurance for commercial buyers which will be carried on large boxes and containers, but not on individual items seen by consumers.
Bord Bia say that Ireland can become a world leader in sustainably produced food and drink. They say that already most beef farms here have been carbon footprinted and dairy farms will soon be similarly assessed.
The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney, encouraged farmers and businesses to sign up for the sustainability programme, describing it as an essential element in the growth strategy for the industry.
