Case study research of green life cycle model for the evaluation and reduction of scope 3 emissions in food supply chains

Scope 3 emissions evaluation is a challenge but Walmart's collaborations with its suppliers has set the benchmark as they successfully reported these emissions to Carbon Disclosure Project in 2020. This study has analysed Walmart's best supplier management practices (The sustainability insight system or THESIS, Project gigaton and Blockchain technology) that proved their success in identifying, evaluating and reducing scope 3 emissions. Using Agribalyse database and case product of beef pie, we identified critical hotspots in upstream food supply chains through life cycle assessment (LCA). A weighting method was used to prioritise the critical hotspots. For empirical evidence, a few hotspots were addressed using Walmart's best practices and modified LCA was piloted that showed up to 10% decreased environmental burden, irrespective of the change in region, data mix and supply chain complexity. For industrial implication, a hotspot resolution model was designed for the root cause analysis of pain points concerning global food supply chains. Firms can use this generic model to identify and implement best practices based on breakdown of supply chain hotspots.