Veramaris unveils Scope 3 emissions reduction targets to enhance sustainability

NETHERLANDS- Veramaris, a joint venture of dsm-Firmenich and Evonik, and an algae-based oil supplier providing an alternative to fish oil, has unveiled its Scope 3 emissions reduction targets for the first time. 

The company is now dedicated to slashing its absolute Scope 3 emissions by 22.5% by the year 2030.

The announcement marks a milestone as Veramaris becomes the first in its industry to declare a Scope 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction target. The ambitious goal aims to reduce absolute Scope 3 emissions by 22.5% by 2030, measured against a baseline established in 2021. 

This initiative builds upon the company’s existing climate commitments, with Scope 3 GHG emissions being identified as the largest proportion of emissions within the aquaculture value chain.

The newly established targets are expected to result in reduced emissions across the entire value chain, benefiting partners and contributing to a more sustainable product for consumers. 

This commitment follows Veramaris’ achievement of a 27% lower product carbon footprint, a result detailed in an updated Environmental Product Declaration recently shared with its customers.

Gertjan de Koning, CEO of Veramaris, expressed the company’s dedication to meeting the evolving needs of customers in the aquafeed industry. 

“We know how important it is for our customers to reduce the carbon footprint of the value chain, and we’re pleased to be improving our climate commitments. We’ll continue to take action as the demand for sustainably produced alternative ingredients in the aquafeed industry continues to surge,” he stated.

Veramaris had previously committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions in August 2022 by establishing a science-based target, endorsed by the Science-Based Target Initiative (SBTi). 

The initiative aimed to limit global warming to below 1.5°C urgently. The recent introduction of Scope 3 targets reinforces and amplifies these commitments.

The company has been actively decarbonizing its operations, aligning with SBTi targets. This has involved a dual focus on both technical and operational enhancements, coupled with initiatives to increase productivity and capacity utilization. These combined efforts have contributed significantly to the rapid reduction of the product’s carbon footprint.

Joanne Pedall, General Manager of the Veramaris Production facility in Blair, Nebraska, emphasized the company’s comprehensive approach to sustainability. 

“To best enable the sustainable growth of aquaculture, we’re actively reducing emissions through tangible actions. From implementing more energy-efficient facilities to supporting regenerative agriculture practices in our corn sugar supply chain, every step we take is a deliberate move to cut our footprint,” Pedall stated.

Veramaris’ strengthened emissions commitments underscore its dedication to pioneering sustainable practices within the aquaculture industry, setting a benchmark for responsible environmental stewardship.

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