Boston, May 23, 2025 – 10.5% of McDonald’s shareholders cast their votes in favor of a Green Century shareholder proposal asking the company to assess whether its existing climate policies and plans are sufficient to achieve its emissions reduction targets. The resolution, which went to the ballot Tuesday, requests details on McDonald’s progress toward reaching its net-zero emissions by 2050 goal.
“McDonald’s commitment to reducing carbon pollution shows that the company understands the risks that a warming planet poses to its business,” said Leslie Samuelrich, president of Green Century. “Now, McDonald’s must assure investors that it will live up to its commitments and take the necessary steps to meaningfully reduce climate-related risks.”
Beef has an outsized climate impact
Our food system accounts for one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions, and few meals we eat contribute to those emissions more than a burger. The life cycle of beef from farm to fork emits more greenhouse gas emissions per kilogram than any other food, according to the United Nations.
Popular fast-food restaurants can play a key role in addressing climate change by buying and selling beef produced with processes that reduce emissions. Chains including Burger King, Smashburger and Shake Shack have added alternative-protein patties to their menus. Diversifying protein options to encourage consumers to reduce their consumption of beef is one critical method to cutting climate emissions.
McDonald’s is slow to show progress
McDonald’s set short- and long-term targets to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions in line with what science says is needed to avoid the worst consequences of climate change. Because beef makes up about one-third of the company’s total climate footprint, reducing beef-related emissions is an impactful strategy to achieve its climate goals.
Beyond the climate risks of increasing emissions, McDonald’s is exposing itself to reputational risk by failing to illustrate it is on track to meet its climate commitments. Environmental groups have suggested companies, including McDonald’s, may be misleading customers about the extent of their climate action, a phenomenon called “greenwashing.”
McDonald’s has several initiatives to decrease the emissions from beef production. These plans aim to produce beef more sustainably and improve soil’s ability to absorb carbon dioxide. Still, the company discontinued its only plant-based burger in the United States, its largest market in terms of system-wide sales, signaling alternative proteins may not be a part of its approach to cutting climate emissions.
“McDonald’s lacks alternative protein options that would help it reduce its beef-related emissions and demonstrate progress toward achieving its goals,” said Green Century Shareholder Advocate Giovanna Eichner. “The happiest meal for investors is one that shows the company is reducing emissions.”
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