Food companies struggle to cut emissions from their supply chains

Major North American food companies are making some progress in reducing their greenhouse gas emissions, but supply chain emissions remain a major challenge.

Georgina Gustin reports for Inside Climate News.

In short:

• Many food companies are lowering their direct emissions but struggle to reduce supply chain emissions, which represent 90% of the total.
• Ceres found that of the 50 companies it analyzed, only 12 managed to cut emissions from their supply chains.
• Reducing emissions tied to agriculture, such as from deforestation or livestock, remains the toughest hurdle for these companies.

Key quote:

“If you don’t have a target and don’t know what you’re aiming for, you’re much less likely to be heading in the right direction.”

— Meryl Richards, Ceres program director

Why this matters:

The food system is responsible for up to 40% of global emissions. Supply chain emissions, particularly from agriculture, are difficult to manage but critical for meeting climate goals.

Learn more:

• Commentary: Farming for a small planet
• Op-ed: New White House strategy backs food rescue efforts but more is needed to fight hunger and waste
• This diet will likely keep you alive longer — and help the planet