Denmark leads ambitious climate initiatives within agri-food sector

Leading Danish food producers are acknowledged by Science Based Target initiatives (SBTi) for their ambitious actions towards a more climate friendly food sector. From farm to fork, new targets have been set to reduce CO2 emissions, boost innovation, and maintain high quality yields.

The agriculture and food sector in Denmark has a large interest in producing high quality with a great focus on sustainability, to supply the global demand for food while protecting the climate.

It is with great ambitions and dedication that Denmark aims to reach the climate goals with emission reductions of 70% by 2030. To succeed, leading food and agricultural companies including Danish Crown, DLG, Arla, and Chr. Hansen are setting science-based climate targets in collaboration with Science Based Target initiatives (SBTi) to conduct significant CO2 reductions throughout the entire value chain.

SBTi is a non-profit organisation that collaborates closely with the UN’s Global Compact, Carbon Disclosure Project, WWF, and World Resources Institute. Together, they support companies in taking climate initiatives by setting up precise, ambitious, and realistic climate goals. All targets are in line with the Paris Agreement.

Danish Initiatives

Today, 152 Danish companies are working closely with SBTi to tackle climate change. The Danish food sector is one of the most modern in the world, also on climate actions. Actions such as higher investments in renewable energy sources and energy efficiencies will help reduce CO2 emissions from the production and logistic operations. However, the highest emissions originate from transport and sourcing of raw materials. That is why solutions like electrification of processes and alternative protein feeds can assure that food producers respect the carbon budget.

Representing the entire value chain

The collaboration and acknowledgement by the SBTi is a milestone for the Danish food and agriculture sector, as it portrays the entire value chain. The dedication from Danish farmers in reducing their local footprint is a leading initiative from a global perspective, which will boost innovation and drive sustainable growth within the food and agricultural sector.

“Even though Denmark is a small country, the largest companies can help inspire businesses globally. They show that ambitious and clear climate goals can increase competitiveness,” says Sara Krüger Falk, director of Global Compact Network Denmark.

Sources: avisendanmark.dk, StateofGreen