American Seafoods – McKenna Hanson – 2025
Summary
McKenna Hanson researched science-aligned decarbonization pathways for American Seafoods, focusing on renewable diesel adoption and lifecycle emissions calculation.
Goals
McKenna Hanson, a 2025 Environmental Defense Fund Climate Corps fellow, partnered with American Seafoods to evaluate opportunities for fleet-wide (Scope 1) emissions reductions. In response to increasing customer pressure to align with science-based climate targets, the fellowship focused on identifying realistic decarbonization pathways that acknowledge industry limitations. McKenna was tasked with assessing the feasibility of renewable diesel integration, clarifying reporting methods for lifecycle emissions, and advancing readiness for eventual alignment with science-based targets.
Solutions
To meet these goals, McKenna conducted technical and policy research of high-emitting sectors, including aviation and maritime shipping, to benchmark strategies for seafood fleet decarbonization. She compared emissions accounting methods, evaluated the cost impacts of renewable diesel sourcing, and outlined incentive pathways such as California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard and federal RIN/45Z credits. Her work included a review of Book and Claim systems and lifecycle (Well-to-Wake) accounting, with a focus on SBTi eligibility for Scope 1 reductions. She also mapped supplier access, forecasted cost scenarios, and proposed a phased procurement strategy for integrating renewable diesel into American Seafoods’ operations. McKenna’s work culminated in a strategic briefing memo and final presentation tailored to decision-makers within the company.
Potential Impact
McKenna’s recommendations could potentially reduce American Seafoods’ emissions by up to 35% on a lifecycle basis through renewable diesel procurement alone (best-case scenario). By adopting Well-to-Wake accounting and committing to transparent, science-aligned metrics, American Seafoods can better meet customer expectations, maintain market access, and position itself as a leader in sustainable seafood supply chains.
