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Spotted: The global food system is estimated to be responsible for around 30 per cent of all greenhouse gas emissions. But getting food production down to net zero is not just a question of cutting back food miles or reducing fertiliser use – many food companies find it difficult to even track carbon along the agricultural supply chain. This is where Root Global comes in.

The startup begins by collecting and verifying on-farm data from key suppliers. As ingredients move through the supply chain, the platform tracks their climate impact at every stage – from field to shelf. Armed with reliable data, companies can then take effective action to cut emissions. For example, they can use Root’s data to set a baseline for their carbon use, and then reduce this year-on-year.

Root’s on-farm emissions calculator also makes it easy to measure Scope 3 emissions from agricultural operations accurately. Companies can also use the platform to calculate and share their product carbon footprints, ensure regulatory compliance, and even automate the process of filling out buyer reporting templates.

The platform can also be used by food retailers to monitor and report the environmental impact of each of their products. This helps with regulation compliance and allows companies to demonstrate sustainability leadership to customers and stakeholders.

The startup has recently raised an €8 million seed funding round, led by Christoph Janz at Point Nine. Since its launch in 2023, Root has worked with some of Europe’s biggest food and beverage companies, including “the largest dairy plant in Europe and the largest fast-food chain in the world”.

Written By: Lisa Magloff