Summary
This comprehensive review examines current methodologies for quantifying and tracking carbon footprints across the agri-food sector, which contributes approximately 30% of global energy consumption and substantial GHG emissions. The authors evaluate established standards (GHG Protocol, ISO 14064/14067, LCA, PAS 2050) through a wheat-to-bread case study, identifying key barriers including data gaps, supply chain complexity, standardization inconsistencies, and SME resource constraints. The paper emphasises that digital technologies (AI, blockchain, IoT), harmonised reporting frameworks, and supportive policy mechanisms are essential to improve carbon accounting accuracy and accelerate decarbonisation.
UK applicability
The findings and recommendations are directly applicable to UK agri-food policy and practice, particularly in relation to evolving sustainability regulations and alignment with carbon neutrality goals. UK food producers and policymakers can adopt the reviewed methodologies and digital solutions to improve carbon tracking, though SME-specific support mechanisms may be needed to address resource constraints.
Key measures
Carbon footprint quantification frameworks; GHG emissions (CO₂, CH₄, N₂O) across agri-food subsectors; data availability and quality metrics; digital technology adoption for emission monitoring
Outcomes reported
The paper reviews carbon footprint assessment methodologies (GHG Protocol, ISO standards, LCA, PAS 2050) and their application across food production systems, with a case study on the wheat-to-bread supply chain. It identifies livestock and fisheries as the highest-emitting subsectors whilst plant-based foods show significantly lower carbon footprints.
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