Potato supplier has already achieved a number of notable emissions reductions
Irish potato processor Wilson’s Country has announced that its greenhouse gas (GHG) emission-reduction targets have been officially approved by the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi).
The reductions have been classified as being consistent with limiting global warming to +1.5C, which is the most ambitious designation available through the SBTi process. The targets cover the period 2019 to 2030.
The supplier also outlined the work it has already done to decarbonise its operations, which includes a 68 per cent reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions between 2019 and 2024 through energy efficiency, operational innovation, and a complete transition to 100 per cent renewable electricity.
The development of a £2 million anaerobic digestion plant is allowing for the conversion of potato waste into clean energy and is now supplying over half of Wilson’s electricity, the company said. That is preventing more than 1,500 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.
The introduction of a biomethane-powered logistics partnership with McCulla Ireland has also reduced annual GHG emission levels at Wilson’s Country by 403,000kg of CO2.
Wilson’s Country managing director Lewis Cunningham said: “Climate change is the defining challenge of our time. Approving these targets is not just a milestone for Wilson’s Country: it is a commitment to act now, decisively and transparently, in line with climate science.
“We urge our peers, suppliers, and customers to also set ambitious 1.5C-aligned targets and join us in working towards a net-zero future.”
