- Lidl GB commits £1.5 billion to support sustainable practices in British beef farming.
- The Sustainable Beef Group rewards farmers for reducing carbon intensity and improving farm sustainability.
- Partnership aims to reduce scope 3 emissions intensity by 28% per tonne by 2030.
Lidl GB plans to invest £1.5 billion (€1.8 billion) in the British beef industry over the next five years to achieve its goal of sourcing 100% British beef. This significant commitment will aid the creation of the Sustainable Beef Group, which supports livestock farmers in adopting sustainable farming practices.
Sustainable Beef Group
Farmers in the group will be rewarded for reducing carbon intensity and using regenerative farming techniques. These practices include better grazing management, enhancing biodiversity, and improving soil and water quality.
Richard Bourns, Chief Commercial Officer at Lidl GB, stated, “As one of the largest buyers of British beef, we recognise our responsibility to support farmers in adopting sustainable practices. This market-leading programme underpins our long-term commitment to buying 100% British, while investing significantly in sustainable practices that exceed industry standards. It ensures our customers can continue to enjoy the best in high-quality, sustainably sourced British beef at the lowest possible prices.“
Carbon Footprint Initiative
Lidl GB has assessed hundreds of farms across the UK for their carbon footprint to gather data. In partnership with Promar, an independent agricultural and sustainability consultancy, each farm will now receive customised advice to reduce their carbon emissions and support sustainable business growth.
Emission Reduction Goals
Lidl and Dunbia aim to reduce scope 3 emissions intensity by 28% per tonne of finished product by 2030. This initiative aligns with Lidl’s broader scope 3 science-based climate targets and builds on the success of its Welsh and Grass Fed beef producer groups.
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The Grass Fed range ensures that cattle spend at least 180 days grazing outdoors each year, with a diet comprising at least 70% grass.
Earlier this month, UK retailer Morrisons announced an exclusive partnership with Sea Forest and Myton Food Group as part of its efforts to reach net-zero emissions from its directly supplied farms by 2030. This shows a growing trend among major retailers to invest in sustainable farming practices and support the environment.