Dunbia, which is a division of Dawn Meats, has announced a new phase in its sustainability strategy for UK farmers.
This sustainability initiative, titled the Plan Four Zero Activate programme, will involve a new network of progressive beef and lamb suppliers from across the UK who are committed to leading the way for change.
The network has been formed after a review and recruitment process, with the farmers involved now playing a key role in demonstrating the on-farm potential for carbon reduction.
According to a statement by Dunbia, the network will help to “identify broader supply chain opportunities for farmers to build more resilient, sustainable and profitable farms”.
Nine farms are involved, located across the UK and representing a range of beef and sheep systems.
Through the Activate programme, Dunbia has collected, analysed and actioned over 860 carbon footprints representing over 1,350 enterprises from across the UK supply system.
Tailored action plans are being implemented through the programme to support farmers in adopting practical measures to reduce emissions, increase carbon removals, and improve overall farm business efficiency and sustainability for participating farms.
In addition, the Activate Leaders programme will measure and improve biodiversity, soil and water, emphasising the “vital role livestock farming plays in nature conservation and storage”.
Dunbia will partner with the Soil Association Exchange to ensure comprehensive and science-based approach.
This partnership will provide the farms with comprehensive environmental assessments, benchmarking, and insightful data to guide decision-making and track progression.
Sustainability director at Dawn Meats Group, Gill Higgens noted that each of the farms will get expert advice and insights, evidence-based decisions, and the adoption of techniques that are tailored to each individual farm.
This includes “best practice management such as monitoring soil health, and adoption of practices such as multispecies swards and adapting grazing rotations, amongst other key measures”, Higgens said.
Head of agriculture for Dawn Meats Group, Sarah Haire said: “Our commitment to supporting our farmer suppliers as they navigate an increasingly complex sustainability landscape, and doing so through simple, practical on‑farm actions, reflects our belief in what’s possible when we work together.”
Joseph Gridley, CEO of Soil Association Exchange added: “We’re proud to be working with Dunbia and Dawn Meats on the Activate programme.
“At Soil Association Exchange, we help farmers turn robust data into practical action – giving them clear insights, tailored advice, and the confidence to make changes that improve both environmental outcomes and farm profitability.”
According to Dunbia, a core component of the Activate programme is knowledge transfer.
Those interested can keep track of updates, case studies and progress from the Activate programme on Dunbia’s social channels.
