Morrisons Commits to Net-Zero Emissions by 2050

Morrisons, a major UK supermarket chain, has announced an ambitious plan to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its entire supply chain by 2050. This commitment marks a significant enhancement of the retailer's climate strategy, with new targets formally validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The updated goals align with the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C pathway and encompass both upstream and downstream emissions, including those from agriculture and land use.

Morrisons targets net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its supply chain by 2030Morrisons sets 2050 net-zero goal across entire value chainMorrisons outlines new emissions-reduction targets

Under the new plan, Morrisons aims to reduce its absolute Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 80% by 2035 and by 90% by 2050, using 2019 as a baseline year. Recognizing that approximately 98% of its total emissions fall under Scope 3, the retailer has set a target for a 40% reduction in Scope 3 energy and industrial emissions by 2035. Additionally, it aims for a 48.5% reduction in Forest, Land, and Agriculture (FLAG) emissions within the same timeframe. By 2050, Morrisons plans to cut Scope 3 emissions by 90% and FLAG emissions by 72%.

Morrisons outlines new emissions-reduction targetsMorrisons sets 2050 net-zero goal across entire value chainMorrisons targets net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its supply chain by 2030

Andrew Edlin, head of sustainability at Morrisons, emphasized the importance of these targets, stating, “The validation of these targets reaffirms Morrisons’ commitment to sustainability... We are taking upstream and downstream emissions of our operations into account, including emissions created in making products, in our stores, transport systems, and then end-of-life emissions too.”

Morrisons targets net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its supply chain by 2030Morrisons sets 2050 net-zero goal across entire value chainMorrisons outlines new emissions-reduction targets

Since establishing its initial near-term targets in 2021, Morrisons has achieved a 22% reduction in total carbon emissions compared to 2019, including a 27% cut in Scope 1 and 2 emissions. This progress has been attributed to operational changes, energy efficiency projects, lower-carbon logistics, and enhanced collaboration with suppliers. The retailer has also committed to eliminating deforestation linked to primary commodities by December 31, 2025, reflecting a growing focus on sustainable land use within grocery supply chains.

Morrisons sets 2050 net-zero goal across entire value chainMorrisons targets net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its supply chain by 2030Morrisons outlines new emissions-reduction targets

While Morrisons has received praise for its ambitious targets, some critics argue that the effectiveness of such commitments depends on the actual implementation and transparency of progress reports. Concerns have been raised about the challenges of achieving significant reductions in Scope 3 emissions, which are often more difficult to control compared to direct emissions.

Morrisons outlines new emissions-reduction targets

• “Andrew Edlin, head of sustainability at Morrisons, said: “The validation of these targets reaffirms Morrisons’ commitment to sustainability and the move to a 2050 target across the full value chain is a big step forward in our journey to net zero.” — Andrew Edlin, Head of Sustainability, Morrisons

Morrisons outlines new emissions-reduction targets

• “Independent approval gives us a clear roadmap to achieve meaningful, measurable reductions. We also recognise that industry-wide collaboration will be essential in achieving these goals and we are committed to working in partnership to deliver them.” — Andrew Edlin, Head of Sustainability, Morrisons

Morrisons outlines new emissions-reduction targets

Morrisons anticipates that eggs will be the first products to achieve net-zero carbon status, followed by lamb, fruit, vegetables, pork, and beef. The retailer plans to continue working closely with industry groups, suppliers, and partners to drive the necessary changes for effective climate action.

Morrisons sets 2050 net-zero goal across entire value chainMorrisons targets net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its supply chain by 2030