Fonterra pledges to reduce greenhouse gases

New Zealand-based dairy cooperative Fonterra has pledged to eliminate its greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
By making changes at its manufacturing sites and adopting new technologies, Fonterra says that they are working to accelerate New Zealand's transition towards a low carbon economy.
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The announcement comes as the company has partnered with the country’s Minister for the Environment to work towards a low emissions future.
The company has set an interim target of climate-neutral growth for 2030 for on-farm emissions in New Zealand.
Any growth in the company’s milk production will have its carbon emissions reduced or offset, said the company.
It is thought that the initiative will help the dairy giant reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency and will be more cost-effective.
“This is an exciting and ambitious partnership, which will have a material impact on climate emissions,” said Robert Spurway, Chief Operating Officer.
“We are committed to helping New Zealand achieve its Paris Climate Agreement commitments. That’s why we’ve set new targets to reduce both our on-site and on-farm emissions.
Fonterra will employ several initiatives to help reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.
By introducing biofuel to its tanker fleet and using more electric vehicles the company are hoping to improve their energy use efficiency.
It is also considering using low emission energy supply options for its sites, such as electricity and wood biomass.
“Reducing agricultural emissions will be one of the biggest challenges of the transition to a low emissions economy in New Zealand,” added Abbie Reynolds, New Zealand’s Sustainable Business Council executive director.
“Net zero emissions by 2050 is an ambitious and challenging target. It shows strong leadership, and will be welcomed by many New Zealand businesses.”