Recent evaluations have revealed that major dairy companies can overlook significant methane emissions that harm the climate.
Animal agriculture contributes about 32% of global methane emissions. This gas is approximately 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period, with milk and beef production being substantial contributors.
Methane has played a major role in nearly half of the overall temperature increase since 1750. Although it doesn’t linger in the atmosphere as long as carbon dioxide, reducing its emissions is seen as crucial to address climate issues.
However, among 20 of the largest dairy and coffee chains, generating over $420 billion in total revenue, almost half lacked clear targets for reducing methane emissions, actionable strategies, and even basic transparency regarding their emissions.
Danone stands out with a specific methane reduction target, ranking highest on assessments made by researchers. General Mills has some climate targets, but they don’t specifically address methane. Nestlé and Arla came in third, with Nestlé notably endorsing reduced dairy consumption.
Only Nestlé and Danone claimed they were actively reducing emissions, despite the known threats posed by methane and livestock.
“Dairy production is a unique opportunity to tackle methane emissions, yet it seems companies are hesitant to address this issue,” said Changing Markets, the organization behind the research.
“The lack of methane-specific targets and effective plans signals that companies are ignoring one of the most significant and manageable contributors to global warming.”
The evaluation included the top coffee chains in Europe and North America, along with the Dairy Methane Action Alliance members.
Urbancic pointed out, “Our findings indicate that while businesses may express good intentions and take sporadic actions, it’s simply not enough. The government needs to take decisive action and establish science-based methane reduction goals in agriculture.”
“With the global methane pledge and upcoming legislation, all eyes are on European governments now,” he added.
A representative from Arla stated that the company, in partnership with farmer-owners, is dedicated to producing more sustainable dairy with clear science-based targets.
Comments were sought from Danone, General Mills, and Nestlé regarding these findings.
