Tetra Pak Study Highlights Emission Reductions in Dairy Processing

According to a new study by Tetra Pak, modernizing existing dairy processing equipment can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by between 40% and 49%, depending on the type of line. These findings are based on a comparison of 2019 best-practice lines with upgraded models envisioned for global implementation by 2025. The study was independently reviewed by the Carbon Trust and aligns with leading international frameworks on avoided emissions.

The dairy sector, responsible for 2.7% of global greenhouse gas emissions in 2023, stands to benefit significantly from these improvements. By upgrading existing lines, producers can reduce emissions, water usage, and product losses without waiting for new technologies. The study suggests that these improvements could result in global carbon savings equivalent to removing three million cars from the roads.

Rodrigo Godoi, Vice President of Processing Portfolio Management at Tetra Pak, highlighted the practical benefits of these upgrades, stating that they help reduce energy, water, and product loss. The study emphasizes the role of electrically powered heat pumps and integrated process efficiency technologies, such as OneStep Technology, in achieving these reductions.

Water-saving solutions, including advanced filtration and cleaning in place (CIP) systems, could further reduce water use in dairy production by up to 455 million cubic meters annually. These findings underline the potential for improving the resilience and resource efficiency of dairy operations without major disruptions.

The study's impact assessment also shows that supportive policy frameworks and financial incentives could facilitate widespread adoption of these upgrades, helping producers overcome investment barriers. Veronika Thieme of the Carbon Trust stressed the importance of quantifying avoided emissions to scale these solutions effectively across the agricultural industry.