Smart Net-Zero

The Food and Drink Federation (FDF) | Source | Handbook |

This Handbook provides practical guidance for food and drink manufacturers—especially those in early stages of climate strategy development—to reduce emissions across the value chain. It outlines actionable steps from farm to fork, including energy efficiency, sourcing renewable electricity, sustainable refrigerants, ingredient procurement, packaging, and logistics. While manufacturers directly account for only a small share of sectoral emissions, they can influence the broader system through supplier engagement and product reformulation.

The Handbook also highlights that ingredient sourcing, particularly animal products and deforestation-linked imports, is the largest emissions source. It recommends measuring ingredient-level emissions and prioritizing lower-carbon alternatives. It also encourages companies to align with consumer demand for sustainable products through carbon footprint labeling. To achieve Net Zero, the report stresses the importance of leadership, collaboration, and credible carbon offsetting—used only for unavoidable emissions and verified to high standards. The Handbook serves as a practical tool to support sector-wide climate action, aligning business operations with global targets to limit warming to 1.5°C.