Evaluating data capture and predictive analytics for managing the carbon footprint of the red meat value chain

Summary

In 2017, MLA announced its goal for the Australian red meat industry to be recognised as carbon neutral by 2030.

Hitachi Consulting considered the Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR™) model developed by the Association of Supply Chain Management could potentially be a good platform for evaluating the current carbon footprint of the Australian red meat supply chain.

This pilot project demonstrated that a nationwide, cost-effective SCOR™ model is feasible for determining the carbon footprint for individual enterprises within the Australian red meat supply chain, regardless of the type and size of the property, feedlot or processor.

Objectives

The main project objective was to test whether or not a SCOR™ model, alongside a certification from the Association of Supply Chain Management, would provide an appropriate standard for managing the carbon footprint of the Australian red meat value chain.

Key findings

• The model calculates the carbon footprint based on the data supplied for the business and provides an overall "net" carbon quantity.
• The SCOR™ model contains recommended best practices tailored to each specific business, which can guide individual businesses on how their operation can improve its carbon efficiency.
• Instructions on how to use the model are outlined in the main report.

Benefits to industry

This project designed a platform that can support the national deployment of the SCOR™ model, which can enable a cost-effective solution for operations along the Australian red meat supply chain to reduce their carbon footprint.

MLA action

Since the conclusion of this project, MLA has formalised the CN30 program, which aims to achieve a carbon neutral beef industry by 2030.

Future research

It is recommended that a new project is established to build a fit-for-purpose web tool for the Australian red meat supply chain based on the core SCOR™ model, which would calculate the industry's carbon footprint in a more cost-effective and timely manner.

Related resources

MLA publications

• Assessing value chain improvements in processes practices and technologies using optimised data capture and analytics, MLA final report, 4 April 2019
• Terrestrial Based Digital Connectivity at Calliope, MLA final report, 22 October 2019.
• Greenhouse gas mitigation potential of the Australian red meat production and processing sectors, MLA final report, 1 May 2019.

External guides

• Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR™)
• Association of Supply Chain Management's (ASCM) enterprise certification