Building a Sustainable Food Future
The Climate Bonds Initiative is thrilled to announce the start of the Public Consultation period for the Alternative Proteins Criteria under the Climate Bonds Standard. Running from 9th December 2024 to 7th February 2025, this consultation is a pivotal step in advancing sustainable food systems. Sponsored by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, the Criteria is set to officially launch in March 2025.
The Alternative Proteins Criteria offers a comprehensive framework to certify climate-aligned investments, ensuring the sustainable transformation of global food systems. Stakeholder participation will be vital in creating robust and impactful standards.
Click here to participate in the Public Consultation.
The Environmental Cost of Traditional Food Systems
Livestock agriculture is a major contributor to climate change and biodiversity loss. It is responsible for:
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60% of food system emissions
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12–20% of global greenhouse gas emissions, despite providing just 17% of global calories and 38% of protein
To combat these challenges, a shift towards increasing production and uptake of sustainable, non-animal protein sources is essential for reducing emissions, protecting biodiversity, and aligning with the 1.5°C climate goal.
How alternative proteins can lead the way
Alternative proteins—such as fermentation-enabled dairy productcs, tofu, and cultivated meat—offer a sustainable way to meet growing food demand while minimizing environmental harm. Transitioning to higher production of these proteins to substitute some animal-based products can:
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Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
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Lower the ecological footprint of food systems
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Provide accessible, nutritious, and ethical food sources
By supporting alternative protein production, food retailers and other stakeholders in the food value chain can adopt credible green financing instruments, fostering a more sustainable future.
Key features of the Alternative Proteins Criteria
The Alternative Proteins Criteria is a critical tool for aligning investments with climate and biodiversity goals. Key aspects include:
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Promoting GHG mitigation through avoided and reduced emissions
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Safeguarding climate adaptation and resilience in alternative proteins production systems
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Addressing safeguards for water, biodiversity, social impact, animal welfare, and nutrition
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Enhancing transparency through robust disclosure requirements
These Criteria apply to eligible alternative protein production entities, assets and projects, as well as projects associated with the distribution of alternative proteins. They cover eligible measures for associated financial instruments such as use of proceeds bonds and sustainability-linked debt, as well as for physical assets and whole entities.
The Last Word: Your Feedback, Our Future. Join the Consultation!
This consultation phase is your opportunity to shape a sustainable and climate-resilient future for alternative proteins. Your feedback will help refine the Criteria, ensuring they are practical, effective, and comprehensive.
We invite policymakers, industry leaders, investors, and all interested stakeholders to participate. Explore the resources below and share your insights:
Click here to participate in the Public Consultation.
Join us in this critical initiative. Your voice matters!
Til Next Time,
Climate Bonds Initiative
