Navigating Net Zero: The Human Side

Our Net Zero Commitment Programme is here to ensure that everyone in Scotland’s food and drink industry understand Net Zero, knows where we’re going and knows how to get there.

It goes without saying that the climate crisis is a human-caused phenomenon, driven by our collective actions that have led to an unprecedented increase in greenhouse gas emissions.

Climate change is an issue that demands collective action and a fundamental shift in our behaviours and systems. Individuals, communities, and businesses must embrace sustainable practices, reduce their carbon footprints, and prioritise the well-being of both present and future generations.

Understanding the human dimensions of climate change, including the key terms around our role as drivers and potential mitigators, is crucial for Scotland's food and drink industry to effectively navigate its route to Net Zero.

Climate Change: The ‘Human Side’

There are three key terms at the heart of the human side on the path to Net Zero: adaptation, anthropogenic and just transition.

Adaptation refers to the ways we adjust and prepare for the impacts of climate change that are happening now or expected to occur in the future. The goal is to reduce the potential harm and take advantage of any potential benefits.

For natural systems like our forests, oceans, and wildlife, adaptation is about finding ways to help them adjust to the changing climate conditions.

For human systems like communities, cities, and businesses, adaptation means making changes to our infrastructure, policies, and behaviours to better cope with climate impacts. Examples in the food and drink industry include developing drought-resistant crops or adapting operations to prepare for the likes of temperature variations and new pests and diseases.

Anthropogenic is a key word used by in conversations around climate change and refers to environmental change caused or influenced by people, either directly or indirectly.

Finally, a just transition is one that ensures that the costs and benefits of transitioning to a low-carbon economy are shared fairly, leaving no one behind. This transition requires a holistic approach, encompassing technological innovations, policy reforms, and a cultural shift towards environmental stewardship.

Why does this matter to the food and drink industry?

The food and drink industry in Scotland has a pivotal role to play in this transformation.

As a significant contributor to the nation's carbon emissions and we must lead by example in reducing them by implementing sustainable practices throughout our supply chains and operations. This includes adopting renewable energy sources, reducing waste, and promoting regenerative agriculture practices that sequester carbon and enhance biodiversity.

We call upon all stakeholders in the Scottish food and drink industry to join the Net Zero Commitment programme – set up to provide leadership and guidance to food and drink businesses, wherever they are on their journey, to accelerate them towards Net Zero.

Together, we can pave the way for a just transition, ensuring that no one is left behind as we collectively address the existential threat of climate change.

Find out more about achieving Net Zero in the Scottish food and drink sector: https://tinyurl.com/FDFNetZero