“While we agree with the CCC that there are multiple pathways to meet the carbon budget, it’s really disappointing that the comprehensive document overlooks the fact that people can continue to enjoy meat and dairy at the same time as reducing their carbon footprint, by considering where and how food is produced. For example, British farming has an ambition to be net zero by 2040 and the NFU’s plan outlines how we can achieve this while maintaining, if not increasing, our production of climate-friendly food.
“In Britain we already produce some of the most sustainable meat and dairy products in the world. Greenhouse gas emissions from UK beef are half that of the world average and we are continually improving as we transition to a net zero agriculture.
“It is important that we all understand the significance of where and how our food has been produced and choosing the most sustainable option. If you want to continue eating quality, nutritious red meat and dairy while also doing your bit for the planet, it can be as simple as buying British and checking where your red meat has been sourced when eating out.
“We will examine the details of the CCC report and continue working with government to ensure British farming can continue to deliver sustainable climate friendly food.”
The NFU has an ambition for British farming to become net zero by 2040. Farmers and growers are already taking climate action across a portfolio of measures; boosting productivity, storing carbon on farmland and contributing renewable energy and materials to the growing low-carbon economy.
Access the Achieving Net Zero report here, which outlines the NFU’s plan for how British farming can reach net zero by 2040.
Download the NFU’s Doing Our Bit For Net Zero booklet here, which features case studies demonstrating how farmers are working towards net zero.