The UK is once again facing renewed concerns over the stability of its industrial CO2 supply after CF Fertilisers confirmed it will halt production at the country’s last remaining ammonia plant in Billingham. Ammonia production plays a critical role in the national CO2 network, as the gas is captured as a by‑product of the manufacturing process. With this shutdown, a significant portion of the UK’s domestic CO2 output is set to disappear almost overnight.
The company cites soaring natural gas and energy prices as the reason production has become “uneconomical,” a pattern that mirrors previous shutdowns in recent years. Each time ammonia output ceases, CO2 becomes scarce – placing enormous pressure on food, drink, and agricultural supply chains. CO2 is essential for the humane slaughter of pigs and poultry, preserving packaged foods, carbonating beverages, and maintaining freshness across supermarkets. Industry leaders warn that even a brief disruption risks widespread operational challenges and possible animal welfare concerns.
This shutdown arrives at a particularly difficult moment for meat processors and brewers, many of whom are already navigating steep cost increases. Trade bodies have warned that without swift government intervention, businesses may struggle to secure sufficient CO2 to maintain production levels. The British Meat Processors Association has raised particular concern that limited CO2 availability will constrain slaughter capacity, leading to backlogs and further strain on the food system.
The implications extend beyond food and drink. CO2 is widely used in healthcare, nuclear power cooling systems, baking, farming, and industrial manufacturing. With the Billingham plant previously supplying nearly one‑third of the UK’s CO2, the sudden removal of this output increases dependency on imports – at a time when European suppliers are also facing reduced production due to high energy costs. Industry leaders argue that relying on external supply could expose the UK to volatile markets and repeating cycles of shortages.
Government officials say they are monitoring the situation and assessing alternative solutions to strengthen domestic CO2 resilience. But with ammonia production paused and energy prices expected to remain elevated, questions remain over how quickly a stable supply can be restored – and whether the UK can continue to rely on a system so vulnerable to energy market shocks.
Sources
- Fears of new CO2 shortage after last fertiliser plant confirms shutdown – Evening Standard / Businessat
- Fears of new CO2 shortage after last fertiliser plant confirms shutdown – The National
- Fresh CO2 shortage fears as surging energy costs force factory shutdown – London Daily
- UK food and drink sector sounds alarm over CO2 shortage as plant halts output – Business Matters Magazine
- Fertiliser factory shutdown sparks food industry concerns – East Anglian Daily Times