Fonterra, New Zealand’s leading dairy cooperative, has decided to withdraw the Toitū carbonzero certification for its Anchor specialty milk range. This marks a shift in its sustainability strategy as the company moves away from using carbon credits to offset emissions. The change aligns with evolving global regulations and aims to provide clearer communication on environmental impact.
On March 6, 2025, Fonterra stated that it will no longer use carbon credits to offset emissions from its Anchor Organic, Anchor Protein+, Anchor Calci+, Anchor Zero Lacto, and Anchor Silver Top milk products. Previously, these products were certified under Toitū Envirocare’s Carbonzero program, which involved offsetting emissions through global environmental projects such as native forest regeneration in Kaikoura, a wind farm in New Caledonia, and a solar energy installation in India.
A Strategic Shift in Sustainability
Fonterra Oceania’s Director of Marketing & Innovation, Renée Milkop-Kerr, explained that the company’s decision was influenced by changing global regulations on sustainability claims and the complexity of consumer understanding of carbon credits. Instead of focusing on carbon offsets, Fonterra aims to improve environmental impact directly within its supply chain.
The move also follows adjustments in Anchor’s Simply Milk range, which now emphasizes supporting social supermarkets instead of funding carbon offset projects.
Future Sustainability Plans
Fonterra’s Carbonzero-certified milk was initially introduced in November 2020, positioning the company as a leader in sustainability efforts in the dairy sector. Discussions with Toitū Envirocare suggest that maintaining such certifications requires continuous progress in emissions reduction. The cooperative now plans to explore alternative sustainability initiatives that directly impact dairy farming practices and production emissions.
Fonterra remains committed to reducing its carbon footprint and adapting to new sustainability standards while ensuring transparency in its environmental claims.
