Dairy farms are an essential part of the food supply chain. Larger food processors and retailers rely on them, but they are also facing increased pressure to meet sustainability targets. A major focus in this area is reducing their carbon footprint, particularly around Scope 3 emissions. But what are Scope 3 emissions, and why should dairy farms be concerned?
What are Scope 3 emissions?
Scope 3 emissions are the indirect greenhouse gases that are part of a company’s supply chain. Unlike Scope 1 (direct emissions from owned or controlled sources) and Scope 2 (indirect emissions from purchased energy), Scope 3 looks at everything beyond the company’s immediate control. This includes emissions from transportation, the production of raw materials, and waste disposal.
For dairy farms, it means the energy used throughout the production process, such as making fertilisers or processing milk, can contribute to the Scope 3 emissions of the larger companies they supply.
Why dairy farms should pay attention
At first, this might seem like an issue for bigger businesses to worry about. However, more and more companies are asking their suppliers, like dairy farms, to help reduce their carbon footprint. This means farms need to consider how their energy use affects the overall carbon emissions of the products they produce.
Larger retailers and processors are increasingly expecting suppliers to report on their energy use and emissions. Farms that can’t show they are reducing their emissions may find it harder to secure contracts or stay in supply chains. On the other hand, those that take action to cut emissions are more likely to maintain and strengthen their relationships with key buyers.
Practical steps for reducing Scope 3 emissions
Dairy farms can start reducing their Scope 3 emissions by taking a few actions:
Assess your energy use: The first step is understanding where your farm uses energy. This includes everything from barn lighting to refrigeration. Tracking and measuring energy use will help you identify areas where you can cut back.
Improve energy efficiency: Simple upgrades, like switching to LED lighting or improving insulation, can reduce energy consumption. These small changes not only lower costs but also reduce your farm’s carbon footprint.
Look at renewable energy: Installing solar panels or wind turbines can help cut reliance on traditional energy sources. These renewable options reduce both direct emissions and Scope 3 emissions by lowering the overall carbon footprint of the products you supply.
Green energy suppliers: Consider switching to energy suppliers that offer electricity or gas from renewable sources. This can make a big difference to your farm’s carbon footprint and help you meet the sustainability goals of your larger supply chain partners.
Work with your buyers: Larger companies want partners who are committed to reducing emissions. Engage with the businesses you supply to understand their expectations and work together on practical solutions.
Why it pays to act now
Taking action now to reduce energy use and emissions puts your farm in a stronger position. Buyers are increasingly prioritising sustainability, so showing that you are making efforts to lower your environmental impact can help you secure and grow contracts.
Early action can also protect your business from future regulations. Governments are tightening carbon reporting rules, and while smaller businesses might not be directly affected now, this could change. Acting now means you won’t be caught off guard by stricter requirements down the line.
How CLA Energy Services Can Help
At CLA Energy Services, we understand the challenges dairy farms face when it comes to balancing cost savings with sustainability. Our team is here to help you find the right energy solutions to reduce your carbon footprint and improve efficiency.
Whether you want to assess your current energy use or explore renewable energy options, we’re ready to support you. Get in touch on 0808 164 6151 or energyservices@cla.org.uk
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