Transforming the food sector towards decarbonization

In a world where the urgency to address climate change is becoming increasingly evident, the food industry emerges as a key player in the search for solutions. According to a recent study, the food sector is responsible for emitting 17,300 million tons of carbon dioxide each year, making it one of the most polluting sectors on our planet today. This underscores the critical importance of decarbonizing this sector to achieve our climate goals and promote a more sustainable future. Decarbonizing the food industry involves adopting practices and technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions at all stages of production, from agriculture and livestock to processing, packaging, distribution, and final consumption. In this context, Edison Next presents itself as a strategic ally for the sector on its path toward sustainability. Thanks to our innovative decarbonization solutions and the experience gained from years of working on energy efficiency, we can help food companies reduce their carbon footprint and promote more sustainable practices throughout their supply chain. Our strategy to achieve these goals is based on several key pillars. First, we focus on optimizing energy efficiency through advanced Building Management Systems (BMS). These systems allow companies to intelligently control and monitor energy use in their facilities, automatically adjusting lighting, HVAC, and other devices to minimize energy consumption and maximize efficiency. Second, we promote the use of renewable energy sources, with a special emphasis on solar photovoltaic energy. Installing solar panels not only reduces food companies’ dependence on conventional and polluting energy sources but also contributes to reducing carbon emissions by using a clean and renewable energy source. Finally, to address the problem of polluting transportation in the food industry, we offer innovative solutions based on the circular economy. One of these solutions is biogas, a renewable energy source produced from the decomposition of organic matter. Biogas can be used as fuel for transport vehicles, allowing the food sector to reduce its dependence on traditional fossil fuels and significantly decrease its carbon emissions. Furthermore, thanks to our role as a Delegate Entity in the Energy Savings Certificates system, at Edison Next we can offer companies that decide to implement energy efficiency or decarbonization initiatives a way to monetize the energy savings achieved. In this way, we not only guarantee our clients greater profitability from the sustainability projects they implement, but also an economic return that they can later reinvest in new sustainability efforts. One of the companies in the sector with which we have been closely collaborating for years to improve the sustainability of its operations and its decarbonization is Grupo Pascual. This ambitious project aims to turn the Aranda de Duero industrial complex and the Gurb dairy plant into pioneers of emissions neutrality by 2026. Through an investment of 20 million euros, we are implementing energy efficiency, circular economy, and renewable energy solutions, such as photovoltaic self-consumption and biomethane, to drastically reduce CO2 emissions. Additionally, as a Delegate Entity, we will manage the Energy Savings Certificates, maximizing financial incentives for Pascual. Decarbonizing the food industry is not only crucial for addressing climate change but also for ensuring food security and promoting a fairer, more equitable, and sustainable food system for all. With collaborative efforts and innovative solutions, we can transform our food system toward sustainability and build a healthier, more resilient future for generations to come, and at Edison Next we are committed to continuing to work to lead that change.