Fonterra Eliminates Coal Use in North Island Manufacturing, Advances Climate Goals
Source: DairyNews.today
Fonterra has announced the shutdown of its last remaining coal boiler in New Zealand’s North Island, marking a significant milestone in the cooperative's journey to decarbonize its operations. The move aligns with Fonterra’s climate roadmap, which targets net-zero emissions by 2050 and includes near-term goals validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).
The final coal boiler, located at the Waitoa site, was decommissioned this month. According to Fonterra's director of sustainability, Charlotte Rutherford, the achievement is a key step in reducing emissions across the cooperative’s manufacturing footprint.
“While progress may not always be linear, we are on track to meet our climate targets,” said Rutherford. “This milestone reflects the dedication of our teams to decarbonize manufacturing and support farmers with the tools and insights needed to drive meaningful on-farm efficiencies.”
Renewable Energy and Emissions Cuts
Fonterra has accelerated its shift toward renewable energy in recent years, completing three major projects at Edendale, Hautapu, and Clandeboye in 2023. Together, these initiatives have reduced emissions by 62,500 tonnes—equivalent to removing 27,750 cars from the road.
The cooperative has been focused on laying the groundwork for further emissions reductions. This includes empowering farmers with mapping tools to identify carbon-sequestering vegetation and providing tailored support for improving farm efficiency.
“As we approach 2030, the impact of these tools and services will become increasingly evident in our emissions reductions,” Rutherford added. “Innovation and collaboration across the value chain remain at the core of our strategy.”
Climate Roadmap
Fonterra unveiled its climate roadmap in November 2023, outlining key strategies to achieve its environmental goals. These include transitioning to renewable energy in manufacturing, supporting sustainable farming practices, and investing in innovative technologies to decarbonize its operations.
The cooperative’s commitment to climate action extends beyond its immediate operations. By aligning its goals with SBTi standards, Fonterra ensures its efforts are in line with global best practices for limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Rutherford noted that while significant progress has been made, continued effort and investment will be crucial to achieving long-term success.
“We’re proud of the progress so far, but there’s more work ahead. Across the value chain, we’re investing in the innovative technologies and solutions that will drive us toward a sustainable future,” she said.
Fonterra’s transition away from coal underscores its leadership in reducing emissions within New Zealand’s dairy industry, positioning the cooperative as a model for sustainable manufacturing in the global food sector.
“While progress may not always be linear, we are on track to meet our climate targets,” said Rutherford. “This milestone reflects the dedication of our teams to decarbonize manufacturing and support farmers with the tools and insights needed to drive meaningful on-farm efficiencies.”
Renewable Energy and Emissions Cuts
Fonterra has accelerated its shift toward renewable energy in recent years, completing three major projects at Edendale, Hautapu, and Clandeboye in 2023. Together, these initiatives have reduced emissions by 62,500 tonnes—equivalent to removing 27,750 cars from the road.
The cooperative has been focused on laying the groundwork for further emissions reductions. This includes empowering farmers with mapping tools to identify carbon-sequestering vegetation and providing tailored support for improving farm efficiency.
“As we approach 2030, the impact of these tools and services will become increasingly evident in our emissions reductions,” Rutherford added. “Innovation and collaboration across the value chain remain at the core of our strategy.”
Climate Roadmap
Fonterra unveiled its climate roadmap in November 2023, outlining key strategies to achieve its environmental goals. These include transitioning to renewable energy in manufacturing, supporting sustainable farming practices, and investing in innovative technologies to decarbonize its operations.
The cooperative’s commitment to climate action extends beyond its immediate operations. By aligning its goals with SBTi standards, Fonterra ensures its efforts are in line with global best practices for limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Rutherford noted that while significant progress has been made, continued effort and investment will be crucial to achieving long-term success.
“We’re proud of the progress so far, but there’s more work ahead. Across the value chain, we’re investing in the innovative technologies and solutions that will drive us toward a sustainable future,” she said.
Fonterra’s transition away from coal underscores its leadership in reducing emissions within New Zealand’s dairy industry, positioning the cooperative as a model for sustainable manufacturing in the global food sector.
