Nestlé has withdrawn from a global climate alliance dedicated to reducing methane emissions from dairy production, signalling a strategic shift in how major food companies manage sustainability goals.
The Swiss-based manufacturer, which cut total greenhouse gas emissions by 21% between 2018 and 2024, confirmed its continued focus on environmental performance under its Dairy Climate Plan and Net Zero Roadmap. The company has previously committed to halving overall emissions by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2050.
The exit comes as multinational food and beverage firms face mounting pressure to balance growth with sustainability targets. Expanding supply chains and rising production demands have complicated progress toward emission reduction goals across the sector.
Recent announcements from other major players reflect similar recalibrations. PepsiCo recently scaled back its emissions and packaging targets, while Coca-Cola, Mars, Colgate-Palmolive and Unilever have acknowledged difficulties in meeting certain sustainability commitments.
Nestlé’s move highlights a growing trend of companies reassessing environmental strategies to align with operational realities and regulatory frameworks, rather than adhering to broad, alliance-driven goals.