Tesco and many of its Welsh suppliers are working with the Welsh Government on an innovative programme to help food and drink businesses reduce their carbon footprint and to grow sustainably.
The groundbreaking collaboration between government, businesses and retailers is making strides towards reaching net zero in the food and drink industry.
The initiative is supported by more than 100 Welsh food and drink companies, including household names such as Authentic Curry Company, Penderyn, Edwards – the Welsh Butcher, and Ellis Eggs.
The pilot is helping businesses to measure and reduce their carbon emissions, which is increasingly called for by consumers and financial institutions.
There are three phases to the pilot:
- Establishing Protocols: Tailoring carbon measurement protocols for Welsh businesses.
- Setting Baselines: Using a carbon capture tool to establish emission baselines.
- Creating Reduction Plans: Developing expert-guided, industry-specific carbon reduction strategies.
Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, said:
“This pilot programme is a significant step for Wales's food and drink industry. Tesco’s support is invaluable in equipping businesses with the tools to measure and reduce their carbon footprint, enhancing competitiveness and sustainability.”
Tesco, committed to achieving net zero across its value chain by 2050, has already reduced its operational emissions by 61% since 2015.
Enfys Fox, Relationship Manager for Local Sourcing at Tesco, said:
“Tesco is committed to building a more sustainable food system, and we’re proud to work alongside the Welsh Government in this transformative pilot programme.
“We recognise the role that industry has to play in helping reduce carbon emissions. By supporting our suppliers in baselining their impact and providing actionable strategies to take forward, we are taking important steps to address the climate crisis and ensure a sustainable future for the industry.”
Simon James, Managing Director of Edwards – the Welsh Butcher, said:
“Participating in this pilot helps us baseline our emissions and develop strategies to reduce them. Sustainable practices are essential for winning future supply contracts.”
The programme aims to create a blueprint for scaling carbon reduction initiatives across Wales’s food and drink industry. Participating businesses are being supported to establish protocols and reduce their carbon emissions which will strengthen their position when seeking financing for growth.
When dealing with loan applications, financial institutions often seek proof that businesses are genuinely measuring their carbon emissions. The pilot programme offers this assurance by providing a structured framework for tracking and reporting emissions, equipping businesses with credible data to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability.
For more information, visit gov.wales/foodanddrinkwales
