The UK's largest retailer Tesco is rolling out a new carbon tracking tool across its entire seafood supply chain as part of its efforts to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

The Seafood Carbon Emissions Profiling Tool (SCEPT), developed by UK public body Seafish, will help the company monitor carbon footprints for both wild-caught and farmed seafood.

"We know the importance of ensuring we have accurate primary data to make informed choices," said Natalie Smith, who heads sustainable agriculture and fisheries at Tesco. "The rollout of Seafish's carbon tool across our seafood supply chain is an important step on this pathway."

Seafood supplier Sofina Foods Europe, an early adopter of the system, said the tool has provided valuable insights into areas where they can cut emissions.

"We are excited to be working with the major UK retailers, including Tesco and our seafood supply chain, to use the tool to support accurate carbon baselining," said Scott Johnston, technical director at the company.

Tesco has already made progress in reducing emissions, achieving a 20% cut in manufacturing emissions among its 100 largest suppliers. The retailer said implementing SCEPT will provide another boost to sustainability.

The initiative received funding from the Fisheries & Seafood Scheme for England and was developed in partnership with food sustainability experts Merieux NutriSciences, Blonk, and the UK Seafood Federation.