Pork sector sets out environmental roadmap as emissions fall
© Tim Scrivener The British pork sector has reported significant reductions in emissions over the past two decades, as it launches a new industry roadmap to drive further environmental progress.
Figures from the AHDB show emissions intensity has fallen by about 40% over 20 years, with carbon emissions per kilogram of pork dropping by 18% between 2008 and 2023.
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The sector says the gains have been largely achieved through improvements in efficiency, productivity and innovation on farm.
Guiding future improvements
To drive continued progress, the industry has launched the Pork Environmental Roadmap, published on 21 April, which sets out a framework to guide future environmental improvements across the industry.
Developed by an industry-led steering group and facilitated by the AHDB, it is intended to provide a consistent approach to measuring and demonstrating progress.
Hugh Crabtree MBE, chairman of the steering group, said the roadmap clarifies current performance and future plans.
“It provides a transparent picture of where we are today, highlights the substantial progress already made and sets out a credible path for continued improvement,” he said.
He added that the framework would continue to evolve as new data, innovation and insight emerge, “helping to ensure the sector remains both environmentally responsible and commercially resilient”.
Priority areas
The roadmap identifies seven priority areas:
- Net carbon
- Air quality
- Water stewardship
- Slurry, manure and nutrient management
- Biodiversity
- Waste and recycling
- On-farm energy.
It highlights the need for consistent data, robust measurement and closer collaboration across the supply chain, with an action plan in place for 2026 to 2030.
Progress will be tracked through regular life cycle assessments conducted every five years.
On-farm progress
Recent analysis points to further gains in environmental performance, including a 71% fall in emissions linked to land use and land-use change, reflecting improvements in feed sourcing and diet formulation.
National Pig Association chief executive Lizzie Wilson said the roadmap would support practical improvements at farm level.
“It supports better decision-making, helps businesses prepare for future policy and market expectations, and reinforces the reputation of British pork as a sustainable, high-quality product.”