Australian Red Meat Sector Targets Net Zero by 2045

The Australian Meat Processor Corporation has outlined a roadmap for the industry to achieve net zero emissions by 2045.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Vegetarian

Australian Red Meat Sector Targets Net Zero by 2045

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Should major industries invest billions to achieve net zero emissions by 2045?

The Australian Meat Processor Corporation has released a report detailing a transition plan for the red meat sector to reach net zero emissions by 2045. The strategy focuses on significant investments in renewable energy to decarbonise processing operations.

Why it matters

This initiative aims to bolster the long-term sustainability and resilience of a sector that currently generates $78 billion in annual sales. By shifting away from fossil fuels, the industry seeks to navigate operational barriers while modernising its energy infrastructure.

The sector processes over 3.5 million tonnes of red meat annually, supported by 189,000 full-time equivalent jobs. Achieving net zero will require an estimated $1.2 billion in total investment.

The players

Australian Meat Processor Corporation

This industry body represents the interests of red meat processors and oversees strategic development for the sector in Australia.

The details

Processors are transitioning toward renewable electricity and bioenergy, utilising solar photovoltaic systems, heat pumps, and electric boilers. This pivot addresses the fact that electricity accounts for 52 per cent of the sector’s current emissions, despite processing making up only 2 per cent of total industry output.

2005 marked the base year for a 45 per cent reduction in emissions.
2010 began the measurement of on-site energy intensity reductions.
2020 saw the start of tracking the 400 per cent increase in solar PV adoption.
2022 serves as the baseline for a 27 per cent reduction in coal usage.
2045 is the target year for the sector to achieve net zero emissions.

Culture Shift

The transition reflects a broader shift toward sustainable industrial practices as the sector aligns its energy usage with the National Electricity Market emissions reduction targets. This move signals a departure from traditional coal and gas reliance toward bioenergy and renewables.

The sector's transition could influence the availability and pricing of red meat products as processors absorb the costs of adopting new energy technologies. Consumers may also see shifts in how industry sustainability standards affect the wider food supply chain.

The takeaway

The red meat sector is aggressively pursuing renewable integration to safeguard its $78 billion economic footprint against future energy constraints. Readers interested in sustainability can monitor the sector's progress as it shifts from coal and natural gas to solar and bioenergy.