Cermaq will cut 35% of its total greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 with 2019 as a base year. More electric boats and facilities, renewable energy, climate-friendly transport and feed will be important measures, making Cermaq one of five aquaculture companies that use science-based climate targeting (SBT).

“Farmed salmon is a climate-friendly food source and with our new measures, we will make Cermaq salmon even more sustainable. Our promise, “Seafood for a healthy future” provides reduced greenhouse gas emissions, less environmental impact and a positive contribution to societies in which we operate,” said Geir Molvik, CEO of Cermaq.

Cermaq's climate target is based on the Science Based Target Initiative’s framework. Climate goals and measures are based on the latest climate science and what is required to remain below the Paris Agreement aim of keeping global warming below 2 degrees Celsius. The goals are verified by certified third parties and only contain measures with real climate impact. Thus, Cermaq becomes one of five aquaculture companies globally that set the most binding climate goals for their business.

Feed and transport key areas of improvement

Feed production and transport to markets account for the majority of the company's total climate footprint. “Cooperating with suppliers and partners is necessary to improve the climate footprint of feed and transport options. This also requires innovation from our side in products and processing. That’s why we engage in international partnerships to improve climate work in aquaculture both globally and locally,” said Molvik. 

Cermaq has made plans for major changes to electrification, access to raw materials and transport. “A simple but important measure will be to reduce diesel use at facilities and move towards electrical and hybrid solutions. At the same time, energy efficiency measures will make solid contributions to our operations in Canada, Chile and Norway,” said Molvik.

Cermaq’s most important measures to reduce climate emissions include:

• Electrification of facilities and workboats.
• The transition from fossil energy sources towards renewable energy sources/hybrid solutions.
• Energy efficiency to reduce overall energy consumption.
• Set climate requirements for feed.
• Improve feed efficiency through the use of new technology development that further reduces the feed conversion ratio.
• Internal RD projects to reduce emissions.
• Streamline production for using fewer resources.
• Optimize means of transport to markets – trains, trucks with hybrid energy solutions and lower greenhouse gas emissions.