Pillar 1. Net Zero

Ambition: Contribute to a 50% reduction in emissions across the agrifood supply chain by 2030

Summer 2024 was the world’s hottest on record with wildfires, floods and droughts impacting food production. To keep global warming well below 2 degrees, the UK Government has a legislative commitment to reach Net Zero by 2050. FDF and it’s supply chain partners have a shared ambition to bring this forward to 2040.

This pillar provides a strategic overview on delivering this Net Zero Ambition and is supported by guidance on implementing actions in FDF's Net Zero Handbook.

Why action is needed

The Climate Change Committee’s progress report published in June 2024 shows the UK is not on track to hit this target, highlighting the lack of progress and significant need for investment in sustainable transport, heat decarbonisation and sustainable agriculture.

The challenge for the food sector is considerable.

Food consumption accounts for 21% of the UK’s total carbon emissions.

Since its inception in 2021, FDF has supported WRAP’s 2030 Courtauld Commitment – a farm-to-fork collaboration to reach Net Zero by 2040. As an interim target, this means delivering a 50% absolute reduction in GHG emissions by 2030.

Food and drink manufacturers are central to this effort and must act to reduce direct emissions (Scope 1 and 2) and influence Scope 3 supply chain emissions.

21%

of the UK’s total carbon emissions from food consumption

50%

absolute reduction in GHG emissions by 2030

Taking action

FDF members are at different stages of their sustainability journeys in reducing emissions. Ambition 2030 addresses this by demonstrating how each business can progress from their current position.

Building a Net Zero Roadmap

FDF recommends members follow IGD’s strategic framework for building a Net Zero Roadmap, taking action across these key areas: measure, target, implement, finance, and communicate and advocate.

View the full pillar overview