I recently had the opportunity to speak on a webinar about a dangerous pollutant warming our planet and dirtying our air. It’s a climate culprit 80 times more potent over 20 years than carbon and far less well known.
Joined by Planet Tracker and Changing Markets Foundation, I discussed how Green Century’s shareholder advocacy is addressing the risks of methane to investors and the environment.
Methane has driven 30% of human-caused temperature rise, and we must reduce methane emissions by 30% by 2030 to avoid the worst consequences of climate change. Agriculture is the largest source, with cows producing more methane than oil, gas, and coal combined. Nevertheless, emissions from farms are expected to increase as our population and its appetite for meat and dairy grows.
Managing methane
I was able to share how Green Century is pushing companies to measure and manage their emissions hoofprints. Speaking from my role as a shareholder advocate, I highlighted Green Century’s access to the companies behind the Big Macs and milk on our tables, as well as the emissions that come with them.
McDonald’s, Wendy’s, and Jack in the Box all buy their beef from companies Planet Tracker cited as major methane emitters – including JBS, Tyson Foods, and Nestlé. Even more, they all have targets to cut their climate contributions that they are failing to progress toward achieving. Given that up to half of their total emissions can come from beef, working with their meat suppliers will be critical to achieving these goals and avoiding the reputational, competitive, and climate risks of falling short.
Farmers are already implementing strategies to reduce methane on farms. Investors like Green Century urge companies to develop and report on these practices to both increase accountability and lead others to follow suit. If Burger King can reduce the climate impact of its Whopper, what is stopping the Big Mac?
From pressure to progress
As my webinar partners provided facts, I shared how Green Century turns this critical research into results. Last year, I filed shareholder proposals at Wendy’s and McDonald’s, pushing for details on how they will achieve their sustainability goals. I met with Jack in the Box this fall to urge them to reach their new targets and update their antiquated sustainability reporting. Our dialogues led the regional fast-food chain to update its sustainability plans and progress.
Green Century can push for these changes thanks to your ongoing support. We will continue to hold companies responsible not only for cutting carbon but ensuring that heating their grills does not do the same to our planet.
—Giovanna Eichner, Shareholder Advocate