Agriculture is the foundation of food security, and climate-resilient agriculture remains essential. But food systems do not end at the farm gate. Processing, packaging and distribution shape energy use, food loss and resource efficiency. This industrial middle of the food system is often overlooked in climate debates, yet it is where many practical decarbonization decisions can be implemented using existing technologies.
Our Dairy Processing Impact Assessment, independently reviewed by the Carbon Trust, shows what focused action can deliver. Dairy is central to European diets and rural economies, and dairy production is energy intensive. The study found that modernizing existing dairy processing equipment could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40 to 49 percent, alongside potential reductions in water use of around 45 percent and product losses of more than 50 percent.
These are not distant or theoretical gains. They come from upgrading existing infrastructure, improving energy efficiency and reducing waste. At a time of high energy costs and operational volatility, these improvements strengthen resilience while cutting emissions. This is exactly the kind of progress that can be delivered at scale when policy enables investment in modernization rather than delaying it.
Packaging and circularity are practical climate levers
Food loss and waste remain one of the largest sources of avoidable emissions. Packaging is part of the solution because it protects food, extends shelf life and prevents waste.
Life cycle assessments show that in applications for perishable foods such as milk, carton packaging, which is primarily made from paper, can have a lower climate impact than packaging formats that rely mainly on fossil-based materials. By protecting perishable food and enabling distribution without refrigeration, cartons can help reduce emissions while supporting food safety and access to nutrition.