IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

Journal of Accounting and Financial Management (JAFM )

E-ISSN 2504-8856
P-ISSN 2695-2211
VOL. 11 NO. 1 2025
DOI: 10.56201/jafm.vol.11.no1.2025.pg52.59

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Quantifying the Carbon Footprint of Small and Medium-Sized Bakery Enterprises in Adamawa State, Nigeria: An Analysis of Sustainability Practices and Potential Emissions Reduction Strategies

Rukaiyatu Adamu, Danjuma Mohammed, Solomon Mamuru

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Abstract

The bakery sector is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the food industry, largely due to the use of fossil fuels and fertilizers in the production process. This research aims to measure the carbon footprint of small and medium-sized bakery enterprises (SMEs) in Adamawa State, Nigeria, and to evaluate the sustainability practices and potential emissions reduction strategies that these businesses can adopt. The study utilized a life cycle assessment (LCA) approach to estimate the GHG emissions associated with bakery products' inputs, packaging, transportation, and waste management. Additionally, the research included a survey of bakery owners and managers to identify the current sustainability practices and challenges faced by the SMEs. The findings indicate that Life Cycle Management (LCM) enhances the environmental and social performance of SMEs, reduces operational costs, and enhances their reputation with customers and investors. The study recommends that government agencies, industry associations, and other stakeholders offer technical assistance and financial support to SMEs to implement LCM and reduce their carbon footprint.

keywords:

bakery, carbon footprint, sustainability practice, greenhouse gases

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Sponsorship acknowledgement: this study is sponsored by the TETFUND Institutional Based
Research Fund (TetFund-IBR-2024)

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