Pembrokeshire-based Puffin Produce has launched what it claims are the UK’s first carbon-neutral potatoes in 200 Co-op stores under its new Root Zero brand.
Root Zero potatoes are certified carbon neutral and grown using sustainable farming practices to remove carbon dioxide, create healthy soil and increase local biodiversity.
“The food system contributes, up to 30 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions which are causing the planet to heat up faster than ever before,” said Huw Thomas, CEO of Puffin Produce. “We have to act now – so we’re on a mission to become carbon neutral and farm in a way that protects and regenerates our land, plants, and wildlife.
“This isn’t easy. We’ve engaged the best scientific advice and partnered with organizations who are helping us to measure, reduce and certify our impact. And we’re also sharing what we learn along the way – with farmers, producers, retailers, and customers – so that we can all have a more positive impact on the planet.
“We are hoping that Root Zero will be the first of many carbon-neutral, responsibly grown, sustainably packaged products that will start to tackle the huge impact of the food industry on climate change.”
Looking ahead, the company said that varieties will also be introduced which do not require storage at low temperatures, along with using more fuel-efficient tractors and electric cars and moving towards 100 percent green electricity use from 2023. Root Zero will also be generating its own green energy by installing solar panels at its production site and wind turbines on its farms.
Picture caption: Puffin Produce claims its new Root Zero potatoes are the first carbon-neutral potatoes in the UK.