EUROPE – Fresh produce companies in Europe including Port International (bananas); Jaguar, The Fresh Company (oranges); and Del Monte (pineapples) are causing a paradigm shift towards climate-neutral certified products, new research reveals.
According to the report, achieving climate-neutral status demands concerted efforts in three key areas. Companies must first collect primary data along the entire value chain, enabling accurate calculations of their emission footprint.
Second, they must implement measures to offset carbon emissions, focusing on collaborative climate-friendly projects.
Finally, compensation projects, like investing in carbon offsetting endeavors, expedite the path to neutrality.
Port International: Pioneering climate-neutral Bananas
Port International, a leading player in the banana market, is spearheading a transformative shift toward climate-neutral certified produce in Europe.
This move aligns with the rising consumer consciousness around climate change and the growing preference for environmentally friendly choices.
The initiative by Port International and other key players like Jaguar, The Fresh Company, and Del Monte signifies a significant paradigm shift in the fresh produce industry.
The momentum is fueled by consumers’ increasing awareness of climate issues and their inclination toward eco-friendly products.
Jaguar, The Fresh Company, and Del Monte: Orchestrating change in oranges and pineapples
Jaguar, The Fresh Company, and Del Monte, prominent entities in the orange and pineapple markets, are actively driving the movement toward climate-neutral certified products.
Their commitment to environmental sustainability aligns with stringent European Union regulations aimed at combating climate change.
These companies have recognized carbon neutrality as a pivotal differentiating factor, leveraging their certified products to gain a competitive edge.
Recently, Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. released its 2022 Sustainability Report, reaffirming its steadfast commitment to conserving the planet.
The vertically integrated producer, marketer, and distributor of fresh and fresh-cut fruits and vegetables is at the forefront of sustainable practices.
In 2022, as outlined by the report, Fresh Del Monte achieved a remarkable 26% decrease in its Scope 1 and 2 emissions, largely attributed to optimizing fertilizer usage, fuel consumption, and facility heating adjustments.
“This progress puts Fresh Del Monte at an impressive 94% completion rate toward its Science Based Target initiative-approved Scope 1 and 2 emissions reduction goal of 27.5% compared to a 2020 base year,” revealed the report.
By embracing climate-friendly initiatives, they position themselves as industry leaders in ethical and environmental sustainability.
Implementation strategies across the supply chain
Fresh produce trading companies and growers are implementing diverse strategies to attain climate neutrality.
These include intelligent logistics solutions, solar power installations, and the increased use of climate-friendly packaging alternatives.
“Growers, such as the apple producers of South Tyrol in Austria, have significantly reduced their ecological footprint through Integrated Pest Management techniques, energy-saving technologies, and biodiversity preservation efforts,” the report said.
Moreover, research conducted in Asia, particularly in China, highlights the growing demand for organic and sustainable produce due to environmental concerns.
Climate-neutral certified products are perceived as premium offerings, meeting consumers’ expectations for quality, safety, and reliability.
As these certifications gain traction in Europe, high-end Asian retailers are likely to follow suit, further emphasizing the significance of climate-neutral practices on a global scale.
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