Assessing the Implementation of Climate Targets: Behind the Brands agribusiness companies

In Oxfam’s most recent Moving the Middle assessment, published in 2023, climate performance was not assessed, because the existing climate framework did not reflect the increasing urgency of the climate crisis. It also did not account for recent reporting and disclosure developments relevant to the agricultural sector, including updates from the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) and the United Nations High Level Expert Group on the Net-Zero Emissions Commitments of Non State Entities (HLEG).

This report provides the outcomes of a new and updated climate assessment of the seven major agribusinesses. The assessment applies a new, comprehensive and ambitious climate framework which evaluates the strength of companies’ climate commitments as well as the extent to which they report on progress. This includes how companies are implementing their commitments, including evidence of internal changes; budgeting for planned climate actions; reporting on progress against identified targets; and monitoring impacts, particularly in relation to suppliers and small-scale farmers.

While the assessment outcomes vary considerably across indicators, companies performed poorly across the board, suggesting that action remains far below what is necessary to sustain a sustainable and just global food system.

The outcomes of the assessment highlight the urgent need for improved climate action in the agribusiness sector. Companies should not only increase the ambition and scope of their climate commitments, but also work to ensure they are implemented throughout their direct and indirect supply chains. They should make the development of their emission reduction strategies participatory and inclusive, and support sourcing models which strengthen small-scale producers’ ability to implement low carbon, resilient and regenerative agriculture practices. They should recognize the unique role of women in the agricultural transition, and actively support women’s inclusion in agricultural supply chains. At the very least, companies should ensure that human rights are respected across their operations. The report includes key recommendations for the agribusiness sector, centered around the themes of climate ambition, gender and small-scale producer inclusion, and transparency.

• Download Final Report - Assessing the Implementation of Climate Targets: Behind the Brands agribusiness companies
• Download Executive Summary - Assessing the Implementation of Climate Targets: Behind the Brands agribusiness companies
• Download Data - Assessing the implementation of climate targets: Behind the Brands Agribusiness Companies