Waitrose launches net zero fund for British farmers
Waitrose has launched a £500,000 fund to support its British farmers and producers in their transition to net zero emissions.
Part of of the supermarket’s Farming For Nature programme, the fund will make individual grants available for projects that will support the adoption of low carbon farming practices.
James Bailey, executive director at Waitrose, said: “We know every farm is unique and we want to ensure that our Waitrose Farmers have the support they need to make nature-friendly changes that work for them.
“The fund is about giving farmers access to financial backing to invest in sustainable practices that will benefit their farms in the long run and support a rapid reduction in the carbon footprint of the food we eat.”
Never Miss a Retail Update!The funding is available for small-scale projects as well as large scale investments. Projects could include initiatives such as the introduction of rainwater capture tanks and sustainable fertilisers, or the purchase of low carbon heating systems and soil friendly machinery.
Building on the £1 million investment in Farming for Nature, the new fund marks a significant step in the programme’s commitment to providing access to affordable finance and resources that support the transition to regenerative and low-carbon farming.
Marija Rompani, director of ethics and sustainability at John Lewis Partnership, added: “With our commitment to our UK farming supply base reaching net zero by 2035, it’s key that we work closely with our suppliers and farmers and go on this journey with them, by supporting them to reduce the carbon footprint associated with the products they supply to Waitrose.
“We’re proud to work with fantastic British suppliers and farmers and look forward to supporting them through this fund to innovate, scale and deliver the low carbon products our customers want.”
