In 2006 the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations prepared a report that estimated the production of greenhouse gases by activities associated with livestock farming. Called ‘Livestock's Long Shadow', the report indicated that livestock farming activities are important contributors to the global production of greenhouse gases that contribute to the current period of climate change.

As Nutreco is very much involved in livestock farming, it launched a special project in 2008 to study these findings and assess their significance for Nutreco. Our aim is to identify those raw materials that contribute most in terms of greenhouse gases. We will then investigate how we can modify their impact, to achieve the greatest climate benefit from our efforts.

At the same time, we must look out for other, unintended consequences. For instance, a processing method that generates fewer greenhouse gases might result in an unpleasant odour or waste that is more difficult to dispose of safely. Further, we need to keep a sense of proportion. While transport for a particular raw material might generate a third of the greenhouse gas resulting from its use, that is less than 1% of the greenhouse gases for the full value chain.

Projects described in the CSR Report include more efficient feed deliveries and meat packaging with a reduced environmental impact. This packaging for chicken is lighter and more compact, lowering the impact of transport. It extends the shelf life of the chicken products and thus reduces waste, and it is recyclable.