As a major processor and marketer of dairy foods in Canada, and as a co-operative with direct links to Canadian dairy farms, Gay Lea Foods understands the importance of protecting our natural resources and being responsible stewards of the environment. Our robust sustainability strategy focuses on three key areas within our operations: minimizing greenhouse gas emissions, optimizing waste management, and adopting circular packaging to align with global efforts to reduce our carbon footprint and build toward a more sustainable future.
At Gay Lea Foods, we are committed to building a resilient, responsible, and sustainable food system through measurable performance. Guided by Canadian Sustainability Disclosure Standards, our approach prioritizes transparency, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Short-term target: Reduce carbon intensity from scope 1, 2, and emissions from solid waste generated in operations by 30% from 2023 baseline by 2030. Decarbonization strategy development in progress and to take effect in 2030.
Progress: 1,560t CO₂e avoided in F2024 to a 1.4% reduction in carbon intensity from baseline).
Long-term target: Net-zero emissions by 2050 across all material scopes
Short-term target: Improve landfill diversion rate to 50% by 2030
Progress: Improved diversion from 28% to 35% in 2024 across the network by centralizing waste and implementing strategic recycling programs.
Long-term target: Zero waste to landfill by 2050
Progress: Sustainable packaging framework implemented, and projects identified.
Long-term targets: 100% recyclable reusable or compostable packaging by 2030. Reduce virgin material use by 50% by 2040. 50% recycled content in secondary plastic packaging by 2040. Short term targets in development.
Our Methodology
Gay Lea Foods ensures all environmental claims are:
Scientifically Supported: All climate and sustainability data are based on relevant, scientifically supported methodology.
Verifiable: Emissions reductions and energy savings are quantified using facility-level data and validated through engineering analysis and project tracking.
Transparent & Accessible: Supporting evidence, data sources, and reporting frameworks are documented and available upon request or through our annual ESG reporting process.
