The ambitious goals of Branston, a leading potato supplier in the UK, have gained international recognition as the company has received validation from the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi). This organisation supports businesses globally in combating climate change by establishing corporate climate action strategies, providing standards, tools, and guidance aimed at transitioning to a net-zero economy.
Branston’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets have been formally approved by the SBTi, marking a significant milestone for the company. This endorsement encompasses the firm’s near-term objectives for the next five to ten years, alongside their overarching commitment to net-zero emissions as well as forest, land, and agriculture (FLAG) targets. This affirmation demonstrates Branston's compliance with SBTi's stringent criteria for net-zero and near-term targets.
Jim Windle, CEO of Branston, elaborated on the significance of this validation, stating, “As a leading produce and added value food business in the UK it is important to us that our ambitious climate targets have been validated by the SBTi. This ensures that our approach is robust, credible, transparent and aligned with acknowledged climate science.” He reiterated that these targets are pivotal for developing a comprehensive climate strategy across all sectors of the business.
The company has set a target to achieve net-zero emissions across its value chain by 2050. This includes an interim goal of reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 60% and Scope 3 emissions by 58.8% by 2033. In an accelerated commitment, Branston aims for a 90% reduction in both Scope 1 and 2 emissions and an equitable target for Scope 3 by 2050, using 2021 as a base year for these calculations.
Branston's initiatives to reach net-zero include enhancing energy efficiency and utilising renewable energy sources. The company operates nine photovoltaic (PV) systems across its three facilities, producing approximately 1.3 GWh of energy annually. Furthermore, an anaerobic digestion plant at their Lincoln site is responsible for converting waste potatoes unfit for human consumption into energy, supplying about 20% of the site's needs.
Jim Windle further commented on the commitment of the Branston team, stating, “Our team has already stepped up to the climate challenge and shown fantastic ingenuity when it comes to making the entire potato supply chain more environmentally friendly – from the field to shop shelves.” He highlighted the importance of closely monitoring outputs and continuously researching new opportunities for adopting improved ecological practices. Windle acknowledged the work that remains but expressed optimism about the pathway ahead with SBTi’s support.
Branston’s commitment to sustainability extends to exploring alternative fuels; the company is currently trialling an electric truck in its Scottish fleet and is installing electric vehicle charging stations for staff at all of its locations. Additionally, advanced smart energy monitoring systems are in place to track electricity consumption across major equipment, enabling a better understanding of energy usage patterns.
In terms of Scope 3 emissions, Branston has been collaborating with agricultural producers, the agri-tech sector, and universities in efforts to reduce carbon outputs during potato cultivation. This collaboration explores the use of low-carbon fertilisers, reduced tillage practices, alternative farming fuels, and innovative cold storage designs, which are part of an ongoing trial now in its third year. Notably, Branston has partnered with B-hive Innovations, an agri-tech firm focused on delivering advanced solutions to complex challenges within the fresh produce industry, particularly with an emphasis on carbon reduction across the entire supply chain.
Source: Noah Wire Services