GREENER GRAZING

Fast food industry leader McDonald’s is aiming to decarbonise all its operations worldwide by 2050. In New Zealand, a partnership with AgResearch is helping to make that happen.

Aotearoa may be one of the world’s smallest nations, but there are many areas in which our little island nation punches above its weight. We produce some of the best rugby players in the world, and our homegrown wines stack up confidently against the top drops of France, Spain and the United States.

Another area where we excel is our premium-quality meat. In fact, New Zealand is among one of the top 10 beef export markets for the McDonald’s global brand. Recognising that beef and dairy farming makes up a significant part of their global carbon footprint, McDonald’s has spent the last decade working closely with New Zealand’s primary sector to explore the ways in which beef can be produced sustainably. A two-year project with AgResearch trialling regenerative farming practices in order to improve soil health and reduce carbon emissions is currently underway in Hawke’s Bay.

“It is becoming increasingly important to identify factors influencing the sustainability of pasture-based beef production systems, given the changing climate, consumer expectations around food production systems and resource use, and environmental and regulatory requirements,” says Gerald Cosgrove, AgResearch Senior Scientist and advisor on the project. One key part of the study is experimenting with alternative methods of stock grazing in order to cycle nutrients through the soil in a more balanced way, while also sequestering carbon back into the soil. “This research is not only about achieving better environmental performance, but we’re also aiming to show that we can do it without sacrificing beef production,” says Cosgrove, explaining that research projects such as this are helping pave the way for more resilient ecosystems that can adapt to climate change. “As scientists, working with a top global brand like McDonald’s is a great opportunity to share what is possible and to further position New Zealand as a leader in sustainable farming.”

In October 2021, McDonald’s announced an ambitious goal to decarbonise all of its global operations – which includes its supply chain – by the year 2050. Projects such as this play a key role in building viable solutions towards more sustainable and responsible food production.

“The exploration of regenerative farming practices is a key player in McDonald’s progress towards our global Responsible Sourcing Goals,” says Kylie Freeland, McDonald’s New Zealand Managing Director. “For over 10 years we’ve been working across the beef farming sector on more sustainable beef production, and we’re excited to be helping to fund AgResearch with this trial.”

“This is a great opportunity to further position New Zealand as a leader in sustainable farming.” Gerald Cosgrove

Globally, McDonald’s takes a lead in areas where they think they can have the most positive impact. This includes responsible food sourcing. You can read more about their approach at: corporate.mcdonalds.com