But Stevenson says farmers will expect support from their co-op to achieve it.

The co-operative is targeting a 30% intensity reduction in on-farm emissions by 2030 -from a 2018 baseline- which will see it further reduce the emissions profile of its products. 86% of Fonterra’s emissions come from on-farm, and the new Fonterra-wide target is seeking to reduce emissions intensity by tonne of FPCM (fat and protein corrected milk) collected by the co-op.  

 Stevenson told Rural News that personally he wasn’t surprised by the target.

“It is broadly in line with what customers and other processors have announced.

“Farmers have always been able to adapt to change. I am confident that this target is achievable.”

He also points out that Fonterra farmers will also want to understand the value proposition of making these changes.

“Council believes that Fonterra will need to do more work in this area.”

Stevenson says he’s encouraged that this is an intensity target which encourages farmers to be more efficient and productive.

“This is something we wake up every day to do.  Farmers will be looking closely for the arrival of new on farm and novel technologies that will assist them further with their focus on efficiency. Fonterra have invested farmer capital in novel technologies. We will be looking for this investment to deliver.”

He says the council is available to pass Fonterra farmers questions and concerns through to the board.  He also encouraged Fonterra farmers to attend upcoming meetings in their area on Scope 3.