Evaluating COP31 as a platform for inter-sectoral dialogue, Nestlé Turkey is participating in two engagements during the summit. On November 9, the company will present its regenerative farming practices at a Scope 3 (value chain indirect emissions) panel held at the United Nations Pavilion inside the COP31 Blue Zone. That evening, Nestlé Turkey will host the YASED COP31 Global Forum Dinner, bringing together global corporate executives and institutional stakeholders.
Global Pledges and Two Flagship Local Programs
Aiming to reduce absolute greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieve Net Zero by 2050, Nestlé sourced 27.6% of its primary agricultural raw materials from farmers practicing regenerative agriculture as of 2025, targeting 50% by 2030. In Turkey, these targets are operationalized through two dedicated programs:
Regenerative Agriculture: Originating across wheat and corn crops, the project focuses on preserving soil health, freshwater resources, and biodiversity. Currently engaging over 100 farmers, the program aims to scale to 400 growers and 2,000 hectares by 2030.
Youth in Agriculture (Genç İşi Tarım): Launched in the company's 120th year, the program bridges universities, industry specialists, and entrepreneurs to integrate youth into food production. Having engaged more than 2,000 young individuals through over 60 hours of digital training modules, an Ideathon brought 12 early-stage startups into the ecosystem, while 8 startups entered incubation for dedicated mentorship. A total of TRY 1.5 million in seed capital will be awarded to the top 3 ventures, targeting over 20,000 participants within five years.
Executive Statements
Bernie Stefan, CEO of Nestlé Turkey:
“Climate change directly impacts the future of food, and food systems are an indispensable part of the solution. Transforming food systems is only achievable through cross-sector collaboration connecting farmers, the corporate world, public authorities, and civil society. In Turkey, which has been our home for 120 years, we feel a deep responsibility toward the future of these lands. Stating ‘This Is Our Home’ emphasizes both our long-standing past and our obligation to future generations. At Nestlé Turkey, we bring together global expertise, local operational experience, and strategic partnerships to build resilient and sustainable food systems.”
Başak Ünal, Marketing, Corporate Communications, and Sustainability Director at Nestlé Turkey:
“We address the future of food as a holistic ecosystem that strengthens soil, water, and human capital collectively. We believe that this systemic transformation cannot be achieved in isolation, but only through unified action. Working alongside farmers, youth, suppliers, and local communities, we support sustainable progress across food networks. Through Regenerative Agriculture, we develop practical, localized solutions with farmers, while Youth in Agriculture connects the next generation with technical knowledge, innovation, and field experience. Sharing verifiable field practices alongside targets is essential in addressing climate change. At COP31, we aim to contribute constructively to international dialogue by sharing our ground-level outcomes.”
