Wide Open Agriculture’s OatUP oat milk secures ‘world first’ Carbon Neutral status

As Wide Open Agriculture (ASX: WOA) begins rolling out its world first regeneratively farmed OatUP oat milk across Western Australia, the milk has now collared another global first with the company revealing the milk has achieved Carbon Neutral status.

Carbon neutral certification was secured from the Australian Government’s Climate Active group and recognises OatUP as creating zero net greenhouse emissions through its production and sales.

This certification comes after an official audit of OatUP’s production ecosystem. This was combined with Wide Open Agriculture’s extensive greenhouse gas emission calculations and plans to reduce these emissions via technology and boosting operational efficiencies.

Any remaining emissions will be offset via carbon credit projects.

“We are proud and excited that OatUP will be the first carbon neutral certified oat milk to launch on the Australian market,” Wide Open Agriculture managing director Dr Ben Cole said.

“The certification empowers conscious consumers to choose OatUP and to know their purchase is not contributing to accelerating climate change.”

As part of the accreditation, Wide Open Agriculture can use the official Carbon Neutral trademark on its packaging along with “carbon neutral certified” in future branding.

OatUP’s initial exclusive launch is on track for the end of the month, with Wide Open Agriculture reporting it had also received a number of preliminary sales.

Climate Active Network

As part of meeting Climate Active’s Carbon Neutral standard, Wide Open Agriculture has also received membership into the Climate Active Network, which is an organisation made up of businesses leading voluntary action on climate change.

The membership will give Wide Open Agriculture regular insights from the Climate Active team, invitations to networking events and the ability to share views and work with other companies to take leadership on climate change.

The networking events will also enable the company to build its business contacts.

Wide Open Agriculture has its own four-pronged strategy in tacking climate change. These comprise supporting large-scale uptake of regenerative farming practices, increasing access to plant-based food and drinks, eliminating food waste and reducing carbon emissions from vehicles and refrigeration.

“We look forward to working more closely with Climate Action in their mission to take action on climate change and protect Australia’s biodiversity,” Dr Cole said.