Fonterra's set some ambitious environmental goals - including net zero emissions by 2050.

It's partnered with the Ministry for the Environment to develop a roadmap to help accelerate New Zealand's transition to a low carbon economy.

Chief Operating Officer Robert Spurway said they'll achieve this target by making changes at Fonterra's manufacturing sites and adopting new technologies.

"We think renewable like electricity are a very real option. That's going to require some new technology and investment in both New Zealand's network and some of the generation options."

It'll bring in 100 electric cars by 2019, introduce biofuel into the tanker fleet and have no new coal boilers installed from 2030.

Chief Operating Officer Rober Spurway said there'll be some upfront costs initially, but that will reduce costs long-term.

"By investing in renewable energy options we think we benefit both from a commercial and a point of view of reputation, will more than pay for itself over time."