New study highlights the environmental impact of cold chains in agrifood systems

A recent study published in the journal Sustainability has revealed the significant greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with cold chains in agrifood systems. Conducted by researchers from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the International Institute of Refrigeration (IIR) and other institutions, the study provides a comprehensive analysis of both direct and indirect emissions from these critical infrastructures.

 

Cold chains, which include processes such as precooling, refrigerated transport, storage, and distribution, are essential for maintaining food quality and safety from production to consumption. However, they also contribute substantially to GHG emissions. The study estimates that in 2022, the total GHG emissions from agrifood system cold chains amounted to 1.32 gigatonnes of CO₂ equivalent (Gt CO₂eq), with indirect emissions from energy use being more than twice the direct emissions from refrigerants ^[1].

 

The findings highlight the importance of targeting cold chains within agrifood systems for GHG emission mitigation actions. Household consumption and food processing were identified as the most significant contributors to these emissions, together accounting for three-fourths of the total in 2022 ^[1]. The study emphasises the need for sustainable practices to reduce the environmental impact of cold chains while ensuring food security and quality.

 

As efforts to combat hunger and food insecurity intensify, the demand for refrigeration processes will continue to rise. Developing sustainable food cold chains with minimal GHG emissions impact is crucial. The study calls for targeted research on the synergies and trade-offs of future cold chain development in relation to climate and sustainable development goals ^[1]. 

 

This new research provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders in the agrifood sector. It underscores the need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate the environmental impact of cold chains, which are indispensable for modern agrifood systems. The study’s authors advocate for the adoption of energy-efficient technologies and the implementation of roadmaps and mitigation strategies to support and shape policy decisions for the agrifood sector ^[1].

 

In conclusion, while cold chains play a vital role in preserving perishable food and enabling its distribution, their development must be aligned with sustainability goals to minimise their environmental impact. This study serves as a crucial step towards understanding and addressing the GHG emissions associated with cold chains in agrifood systems. 

Source
[1] FAO (2024). “Sustainable Food Cold Chains: Opportunities, Challenges, and Way Forward.” Sustainability, 16(21), 9184. [Link]