The Path to Net Zero: A need for collaboration across the Agri-Food value chain

Businesses are responsible for roughly 80% of annual global greenhouse gas emissions, with Scope 3 (indirect) emissions making up the largest portion. The graphic below shows that more than for retailers, this number skyrockets to 98%. (McKinsey & Company, 2024) This is because retailers rely heavily on supply chains—like manufacturing, transportation, and product use—where most emissions occur, leaving their direct operations as a small share of the total footprint.

The risk is that only 16% of the world’s largest companies are on track to achieve net zero by 2050, and just 37% have comprehensive targets that include Scopes 1, 2, and 3 emissions. (Accenture, 2024) For suppliers and partners in the retail sector, aligning with retailer sustainability goals is becoming increasingly important. Companies that set credible targets and show progress are better positioned to secure contracts, remain competitive, and avoid potential risks like higher costs or losing market share to businesses that meet retailer expectations.

For suppliers and partners in the retail sector, aligning with retailer sustainability goals is becoming increasingly important. Companies that set credible targets and show progress are better positioned to secure contracts, remain competitive, and avoid potential risks like higher costs or losing market share to businesses that meet retailer expectations.

The opportunity is clear, leading organizations are already embracing the move. Over 85% of companies have adopted key decarbonization levers like energy efficiency and renewables, but most are still lagging in supply chain engagement. Suppliers who work with buyers on emissions reductions are 52% more likely to achieve annual reductions. (CDP, 2024)

Retailers face a critical inflection point as Scope 3 emissions dominate their carbon footprints. Businesses that prioritize supply chain engagement, leverage advanced carbon measurement tools, and align their operations with science-based targets will not only enhance their sustainability credentials but also unlock long-term resilience and competitive advantage.

Measuring carbon emissions isn't just about compliance—it's about ensuring long-term resilience in a carbon-conscious economy, gaining competitiveness by aligning with buyers’ goals, and unlocking cost-saving opportunities through energy efficiency and waste reductions. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or service provider, the journey to Net Zero starts with understanding your impact.

Tools like CarbonOne are an excellent first step, no matter where you are on your sustainability journey. Whether you're just starting to measure your emissions or working toward ambitious Net Zero targets, CarbonOne provides the robust carbon accounting tools you need to gain clarity and precision. Beyond measurement, CarbonOne also offers the support and insights to help you set realistic goals and take meaningful action, turning sustainability ambitions into measurable progress.

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The Path to Net Zero: A need for collaboration across the Agri-Food value chain

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The Path to Net Zero: A need for collaboration across the Agri-Food value chain

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