As the world focuses on achieving Net Zero, one of the biggest challenges we face is reducing the carbon footprint associated with airfreighted fresh produce. While airfreight is a critical part of the global food supply chain, it is also responsible for significant greenhouse gas emissions. The question we face is how we can take a fair approach to Net Zero, which allows us to decarbonize airfreighted fresh produce while still ensuring that everyone has access to fresh, healthy, and sustainable food.

The first step is to recognise that the food system is a complex network of producers, distributors, and consumers. Each of these stakeholders has a role to play in reducing the carbon footprint of airfreighted fresh produce. Producers can adopt sustainable agriculture practices, such as vertical farming, which reduces the need for airfreight. Distributors can optimize supply chains, reduce food waste, and invest in low-emission transport. Consumers can support local farmers, reduce food waste, and make more sustainable food choices.

Secondly, we need to ensure that decarbonizing airfreighted fresh produce does not come at the expense of small farmers and local communities. These stakeholders often rely on airfreight to access global markets and earn a livelihood. Therefore, any approach to Net Zero must ensure that small farmers and local communities are not left behind and that they have access to the resources and support they need to transition to more sustainable practices.

Thirdly, we need to invest in innovation and technology that can reduce the carbon footprint of airfreight. This includes exploring alternative fuels, such as biofuels and electric planes, improving supply chain efficiency, and developing new packaging solutions that reduce waste and emissions.

Lastly, we need to work together as a global community to address the challenge of decarbonizing airfreighted fresh produce. This means sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices, and collaborating across borders to achieve common goals.

A fair approach to Net Zero requires a holistic approach that involves all stakeholders in the food system. By working together and investing in sustainable practices, innovation, and technology, we can decarbonize airfreighted fresh produce and ensure that everyone has access to fresh, healthy, and sustainable food.

Beanstalk Global has been asked by a select number of industry groups and key educational establishments to gauge initial industry from the UK & International fresh produce sectors to create a sector campaign and associated research projects to make ongoing solutions in such a crucial area.

Would you like to be directly involved to assist the sectors and gain the benefit from what is being created? Email info@beanstalk.global quoting Ref: “FAIRMILES” with your details and we will make sure you are then fully updated as the planned campaign and research gathers pace.