.Fast food giant McDonald's has set a target of having net zero emissions by 2050.
However, the company's operations in the UK and Ireland aim to achieve the milestone ten years earlier, in 2040.
Today it launched a new business and sustainability strategy underpinning the target, called Plan for Change, which outlines the steps McDonald's UK and Ireland is taking now and in the future, alongside deadlines and commitments.
"This new Plan for Change is not just our sustainability strategy, it’s our business priority," said Paul Pomroy, Chief Executive, McDonald’s UK & Ireland.
"That means it isn’t a plan for one change, but for many – changes that together, with 1,400 restaurants, over 130,000 people, 23,000 Irish and British farmers and 4 million customers visiting every day, really will add up."
The company says its plan includes science-based emissions reduction targets.
It will also join the SBTi Business Ambition for 1.5°C campaign and the United Nations Race to Zero campaign.
Among the measures being implemented is a plan for the chain’s first ever net zero emission restaurant, to be built in Shropshire in the UK.
The company has also set a target to ensure customer packaging is made from renewable, recycled or certified sources and designed to be recyclable or compostable, by 2024.
"Food Vision 2030 sets an ambition for Ireland to be a world leader in sustainable food systems by 2030," said Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food & Marine, Martin Heydon.
"In that context, it is encouraging to see a leading company such as McDonald’s Ireland making a clear commitment towards the climate agenda and long-term positive change."
McDonald’s Ireland has 95 restaurants, 95% of which are owned and operated by 22 franchisees
