Fresh Del Monte Produce has released its 2019 Sustainability Report, documenting the company’s efforts to reduce emissions and achieve carbon neutrality
The report also details Fresh Del Monte’s progress in traceability, packaging, cutting pesticide use and wastewater treatment.
“As an agricultural company — and as human beings — we depend on the health and wellbeing of our planet,” Hans Sauter, senior vice president of corporate research and development, quality assurance and agricultural services, said in a news release. “It’s our top priority, and you see it manifest in our efforts to conserve land, protect and preserve ecosystems, implement sustainable farming practices, and supported community growth across the globe.”
According to the release and the report, Fresh Del Monte has:
- Exceeded a 10-year target of reducing energy consumption by 20%;
- Received certification that the Costa Rican Bandeco banana division has been carbon neutral since 2013;
- Received carbon neutral certification this fall for Costa Rican (Pindeco division) pineapple operations;
- Certified all processing and distribution centers under international food safety standards ahead of its 2020 goal;
- Achieved a 12% drop in energy per ton of product and 21% decrease in water per ton of product; and
- Planted more than 700,000 trees in its growing communities, with a goal of 2.5 million by 2025.
The company’s sustainability plan is called a Better World Tomorrow.
“Much work remains, globally and locally, and we have a lot left to learn,” Sauter said in the release. “But we are excited by this opportunity to work toward a Better World Tomorrow, and for many generations to come.”
