Energy Procurement, GHG Emissions, Sourcing Renewables  -  May 30, 2023

General Mills Unveils New Climate Plan

General Mills unveiled its new climate plan, marking the company's 53rd year of reporting with new commitments including reducing GHG emissions across its value chain by 30% by 2030 and achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

A majority of the company’s goals address its carbon footprint beyond its direct operations, including Scopes 1, 2, and 3 emissions.

General Mills has driven significant reductions in its own operations, which account for 5% of its GHG footprint, achieving a 49% reduction since 2020 and a 26% reduction in 2022. This progress means the company has met and exceeded its 2030 Scope 1 and Scope 2 Science Based Target goals.

The plan also features the company’s progress toward its climate goals across key levers, including regenerative agriculture, deforestation, renewable electricity, and transportation efficiency.

General Mills implemented numerous renewable energy initiatives worldwide that support its environmental goals. It made investments in wind energy and solar power, which will help the company source 100% renewable electricity across its global operations by 2030.

To address the company’s Scope 3 emissions, driving collective collaboration and action across its value chain is crucial. General Mills established a climate team and GHG lever teams, each of which is dedicated to one area of its carbon footprint.

“For more than 150 years, General Mills has been guided by the belief that doing good and good business are not mutually exclusive. We’ve proven year-over-year, including throughout an unprecedented global pandemic, that they go hand-in-hand,” said Jeff Harmening, Chairman and CEO of General Mills, in a statement. “We are more committed than ever to ensuring the G in General Mills stands for Good, and our focus on people and planet remains central to how we operate.” 

Highlights are detailed in the company’s Global Responsibility Report.

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