Is the environmental situation really that bad?
In short, no. There has been much negative messaging regarding the sustainability of livestock in the press recently. We agree that we, both Aldens and the industry, can do more in helping the environment. However, given that the UK in general does have some of the most climate-friendly and sustainable methods in the world, we wanted to offer a balanced, fact-based perspective.
Let’s start with getting some figures correct. The latest Committee on Climate Change figures show that the UK is very different to global production figures. Agriculture is responsible for just 9% of total UK emissions, with sheep and cattle responsible for just 3%.
Plus, that doesn’t take into account the fact that the majority of sheep and beef cows are managed on grassland, which absorbs carbon and locks it in the soil. Or that more than 60% of agricultural land in the UK is currently used for livestock. Much of this would be taken out of food production if it wasn’t grazed.
When it comes to tackling greenhouse gases, farmers are also taking action. Almost 40% of farmers are already rolling out innovative measures like using renewable energies by installing solar panels, erecting wind turbines, upgrading to more efficient machinery and modernising farming practices. A further 20% have said they will roll out climate-friendly initiatives within the next two years.
What are Aldens doing to help the environment?
Every business decision that we make is subject to environmental considerations, and Aldens have already made many significant changes to reduce our carbon footprint. On top of this, we regularly review and invest in improvements, always seeking ways to minimise energy use and waste generation. So, what have we done so far?
- We recycle all the plastic and cardboard that comes into our factory, almost 100 tonnes every year.
- Aldens have Oxfordshire’s first fully electric, refrigerated delivery van, producing zero emissions, further reducing our carbon footprint.
- Where possible, we use local suppliers to reduce food miles and the impact of transport.
- We also regularly review and improve delivery routes to customers to improve energy efficiency and reduce pollution.
- Using compostable cutlery and cups in our Fish4Lunch restaurant
The Aldens management team have made sustainability and environmental responsibility a high priority for the business over the next 5 years. We aim to continue what we’re currently doing improving our environmental impact and increase what we’re doing each year. Keep an eye out for further announcements on our website and social media feeds.