Carbon Reduction
Commitment from industry
UK food and drink manufacturers have a good track record when it comes to carbon
reduction. The industry accounts for 11% of the food chain's greenhouse gases –
and FDF members for about 6% to 7% of the total. Food and drink manufacturers
reduced their CO2 emissions by 15.2% between 1990 and 2005 and are working to
achieve more, principally through FDF's voluntary Climate Change Agreement with
Defra.
Carbon footprinting
As concerns about the environmental impact of consumer goods industries have
grown, so has the debate about the need to develop a carbon labelling scheme for
individual products. This is a complex issue and we are pleased that the Carbon
Trust has taken a lead in this area, particularly its work in developing a
methodology for measuring carbon footprints. We are also pleased that Defra and the
British Standards Institute are now closely involved in the development of the
Trust's proposals.
Industry lobby for effective system
We believe it is vital to have a single carbon footprint methodology for
industry as a whole. To be effective, the methodology must be practicable, based upon
sound science and easily understood by consumers. FDF is now working closely
with the Trust to ensure that industry's perspective and expertise helps to shape
the way forward.
More Information
Last reviewed: 16 May 2008