Marks & Spencer (M&S) has announced a strategic partnership with Black Bull Biochar (BBB) to pilot a carbon removal initiative within its poultry supply chain, marking a bold step toward integrating sustainable agricultural practices across its operations.

The project, launched in collaboration with Avara Foods, one of the UK’s largest poultry producers, will test the use of biochar on farms. This natural, charcoal-like substance is designed to improve both environmental outcomes and bird welfare. 

The initiative will be supported through the purchase of Biochar Carbon Removal Credits, as M&S looks to embed carbon reduction mechanisms directly into its supply chain.

Running from summer 2025 through spring 2026, the pilot focuses on three core objectives:

• Reducing ammonia emissions in poultry housing
• Enhancing bird health and productivity
• Improving manure quality by increasing its nutrient retention capacity

According to Avara Foods, the dual benefits of biochar lie in its ability to create a healthier environment within poultry barns and subsequently improve soil quality when manure is applied to fields. The goal is to develop a scalable, evidence-based model for sustainable poultry farming that can be replicated across the retail sector.

This pilot is one of several initiatives backed by the M&S Plan A Accelerator, the retailer’s funding program dedicated to scaling sustainability innovations. It also represents one of the first high-profile applications of carbon removal practices directly in the food retail supply chain.

By integrating nature-based solutions such as biochar into its agricultural operations, M&S aims to demonstrate a viable pathway for retailers to contribute to net-zero targets while enhancing supply chain resilience. If successful, the model may offer a blueprint for industry-wide adoption.

Source:

https://esgnews.com/ms-partners-with-black-bull-biochar-to-launch-carbon-removal-pilot-in-poultry-supply-chain/

https://biochartoday.com/news/ms-and-black-bull-biochar-partner-for-sustainable-poultry-farming/