UK retailer Co-op has announced a scheme to financially reward sustainable farming practices in its beef supply chain.
Working in partnership with its supplier Dunbia, Co-op has plans to rapidly decarbonise its supply chain through what it has called a ‘Beef Sustainability Pilot’ that will recognise and reward farmers for reducing their impact on the environment.
Over the course of the two-year programme, the retailer will have the chance to monitor the impact of integrating sustainable farming practices within its beef supply base. Co-op said it will also help to provide accurate emissions data and will inform actions on an integral part of its plans to be net zero by 2040.
Farmers in the pilot group, representing around 10% of Co-op’s beef supply chain, will be supported throughout the scheme and will be given access to a bespoke emission reduction plan. Farmers will receive a sustainability dividend linked to the level of reductions achieved over the course of the initiative.
Joseph Keating, Co-op’s agriculture manager, commented: “Recognising and rewarding farmers who are leading the way and making positive changes to reduce their carbon footprint is important in developing a more resilient and sustainable agriculture industry.
“As a responsible retailer, we continue to lead on the issues that matter most to our member owners and customers, and supporting British farmers on their collective sustainability journey is at the very heart of this. We know that by investing in British agriculture, we are investing in the UK economy, supporting farming communities and meeting our members concerns for food provenance.”
Each farm is different so farmers will look to integrate sustainable farming methods recommended as part of their individual emissions reduction plan.
Dunbia will share knowledge and best practice, raise awareness, and offer support to farmers seeking to reduce their on-farm emissions.
Read more about Co-op on Green Retail World
[Image credit: Co-op]
