The Climate Bonds Standard is expanding to include the rapidly growing alternative proteins sector, marking a significant step in addressing the global demand for sustainable food solutions amid population growth. This initiative aims to transform food systems and support a more resilient future. The Climate Bonds Initiative has assembled a Technical Working Group to develop rigorous criteria and best practices for alternative proteins, unlocking investment opportunities and accelerating the transition to sustainable, innovative protein sources.
Livestock agriculture is a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions and biodiversity loss, accounting for approximately 60% of emissions from the food system and 12-20% of all global greenhouse gases. Despite its significant environmental impact, animal-based foods provide just 17% of the world’s calories and 38% of its protein. With global meat consumption projected to rise by 50% by 2050, addressing these impacts is increasingly urgent.
Alternative proteins, including plant-based options like beans and tofu, and innovative solutions like cultivated meat, offer a path to reduce the environmental footprint of food systems. The new criteria will set production standards and procurement guidelines for alternative protein producers, food retailers, and other stakeholders, ensuring alignment with a 1.5°C climate pathway. This will pave the way for green financing and support sustainable growth in the sector, aligning the agri-food industry with global climate objectives.
The Alternative Proteins Criteria will focus on two key areas: promoting the production and consumption of lower-impact proteins to replace high-impact animal-based foods, particularly ruminant meats like beef, and reducing emissions in alternative protein production by using renewable energy, low-impact materials, and effective waste management. These guidelines will address climate, land use, and other environmental issues, such as water pollution while aligning with existing standards and policies.
By expanding its scope to include alternative proteins, the Climate Bonds Standard aims to drive investments that support the agri-food sector’s transition to sustainability. This builds on the Agri-Food Programme’s work, including the upcoming certification for deforestation-free sourcing criteria and agriculture standards, reinforcing a commitment to creating a climate-resilient food system that protects biodiversity and contributes to global climate goals.
