150 Product Lines, Over 50 Countries, and a Sustainability Strategy That Works.

When Chelmer Foods – a leading UK supplier of dried fruits, nuts, seeds, and ingredients, set out to understand and reduce its environmental impact, the challenge was immense. With a global supply chain spanning more than 50 countries and 150 product lines, the company needed a strategy that was both rigorous and practical.

Chelmer Foods recognised that sustainability is no longer optional, but a necessity. However, for companies operating complex international supply chains, the biggest impacts often lie far beyond their own walls. Chelmer wanted a clear, credible baseline for its carbon footprint and a roadmap to lead the sector on responsible sourcing and decarbonisation.

Our Approach

Working in partnership with King Environmental, we delivered a comprehensive environmental strategy that went far beyond a simple carbon report. This was a comprehensive examination of Chelmer’s operations and supply chain, designed to deliver a strategy that is practical today and resilient for the future.

Chelmer had already taken impressive steps on-site, from solar PV to electrified logistics and circular economy initiatives. Our role was to build on that foundation, connecting these achievements to a full value chain strategy and a clear roadmap for the future. This included:

• Full Scope 1, 2, and 3 Carbon Footprint – covering everything from site energy use to upstream production and international shipping.

• Product-Level Analysis – emissions mapped across 150 product lines, identifying hotspots and opportunities for supplier engagement.

• Operational Audits – detailed energy assessments at Chelmer’s Chatteris and Braintree sites, highlighting efficiency gains and renewable energy opportunities.

• Supply Chain Engagement – benchmarking through the Supply Chain Sustainability School, where Chelmer achieved Silver status.

• Recognition and Assurance – awarded the Green Lark Carbon Verified Seal, demonstrating transparency and measurable progress.

The Results

• 50,000 tCO₂e footprint mapped, with 99.8% of emissions identified in Scope 3 – giving Chelmer clarity on where to focus.

• On-site solar PV, electrification of internal logistics, and circular economy initiatives now sit within a broader sustainability strategy, ensuring these actions deliver maximum impact.

• Industry recognition, including the Green Lark Carbon Verified Seal and SCSS Silver status.

• Chelmer Foods now has a clear pathway to a low-carbon future – and the confidence to communicate its progress to customers and stakeholders.

Looking Ahead

Our partnership with Chelmer Foods doesn’t stop here. We’re now working on:

• UK & EU Readiness Report – ensuring Chelmer’s sustainability strategy aligns with evolving regulatory requirements and trade expectations across both markets.

• Long-Term Water Scarcity Analysis – assessing future water-related risks in key sourcing regions to strengthen resilience and responsible sourcing practices.

These forward-looking projects will help Chelmer stay ahead of environmental, regulatory, and market challenges, reinforcing its position as a leader in sustainable food supply.

“Many won’t appreciate the complexity of moving tens of thousands of tonnes of goods across the globe – let alone the carbon impact that comes with it. Not only do we have that challenge, but now, importantly, we have a strong strategy to move forward. This process gave us clarity and a plan we can act on. It’s a huge step forward for our business and for our customers.”

James Weaire, Managing Director, Chelmer Foods

At Green Lark, we don’t just work with industry leaders like Chelmer Foods. Whether you’re a multinational with a global supply chain or an smaller business taking your first steps toward sustainability, we bring the same depth of expertise and commitment to every project.

Click here to read more about Chelmer Foods, or check out the other services Green Lark can support your organisation with today.