Smithfield Foods Enhances Sustainability with New GHG Framework
Smithfield Foods Implements Innovative GHG Reporting Framework
Smithfield Foods is taking significant steps to improve sustainability with the introduction of a new greenhouse gas (GHG) reporting framework. This initiative is driven by considerable changes to operations, enhanced data collection methods, and updated GHG calculation methodologies.
Commitment to Environmental Stewardship
Stewart Leeth, Smithfield Foods' chief sustainability officer, highlighted the company's long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship. Smithfield was among the first major players in the sector to launch a comprehensive sustainability program over two decades ago. Leeth emphasized that this new framework will equip customers with production-based metrics to understand the environmental impact of the products they consume.
Adapting to Evolving Standards
Under the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, companies must update their baseline GHG footprints following significant operational changes. Due to recent shifts within Smithfield, such as streamlining operations primarily in North America, the company found that comparisons to its 2010 baseline had become less meaningful.
Key Operational Changes
The operational footprint of Smithfield Foods has notably altered due to a strategic focus on the North American market. Significant adjustments include the divestiture of European operations, the closure of a large manufacturing facility, and the introduction of new facilities in various states, which has led to a nearly 20% reduction in hog production.
Enhanced Reporting Capabilities
Since establishing its initial GHG baseline in 2010, Smithfield has vastly improved its data collection, analysis, and reporting capabilities. The new framework will align its GHG inventory calculations with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, emphasizing two main areas: methane capture and GHG intensity.
Methane Capture Initiatives
Smithfield has initiated efforts to quantify the total methane captured on its owned and contracted farms. This captures critical data related to the environmental benefits of their practices in reducing methane emissions.
Collaboration for Renewable Energy
Smithfield is advancing its innovative work in methane capture through partnerships with Monarch Bioenergy and Align RNG, ventures co-founded in 2018. These partnerships aim to develop biodigester projects that convert methane from manure into renewable energy.
Benefits of Renewable Natural Gas (RNG)
The renewable natural gas produced from biogas boasts an impressively low carbon intensity score and is deemed carbon-negative. Digesters installed on farms effectively capture more greenhouse gases than are released during its use as RNG. Moreover, Smithfield's revised GHG footprint incorporates accounting for biogas emission reductions achieved through these collaborations.
Future GHG Reduction Goals
The new reporting framework is set to be implemented with Smithfield's upcoming sustainability report. This updated approach will better quantify the company's GHG reductions in accordance with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol accounting standards. Smithfield demonstrates a strong commitment to not only measuring but also reducing its environmental impact.
Significant Achievements to Date
Since 2019, Smithfield and its biogas partners have successfully captured over 3.5 million dekatherms of methane, equivalent to approximately 1.37 million metric tons of carbon dioxide. Looking ahead, the company aims to capture an additional 20 million dekatherms by 2035, showcasing their aggressive commitment to sustainability.
About Smithfield Foods
Smithfield Foods stands as a leading American company in the sector of packaged meats and fresh pork products. With a rich brand portfolio and solid relationships with U.S. farmers, Smithfield addresses the global demand for quality protein responsibly, ensuring a sustainable approach in everything they do.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new GHG reporting framework by Smithfield Foods?
The framework aims to enhance sustainability measures by providing production-based metrics related to the environmental impact of their food production processes.
How has Smithfield’s operational footprint changed?
Smithfield has streamlined its operations, pulling out of the European market, closing a facility in California, and reopening new sites while reducing hog production.
What are Smithfield's goals regarding methane capture?
Smithfield aims to quantify methane capture on farms and enhance its GHG reduction efforts through collaboration with partners engaged in renewable energy projects.
Why is the new framework important for customers?
The framework provides customers with a better understanding of the environmental impact of the products they choose, fostering transparency in sustainability.
What is Smithfield's commitment to renewable energy?
Smithfield is co-developing projects to capture methane from manure and convert it to renewable energy, contributing to their sustainability goals.
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