North Bay Produce Strengthens Sustainability Commitment
Left: Jennifer Pulcipher. Right: resealable top seal film on clamshell. Image Credit: freshplaza.com
In spring 2024, North Bay Produce announced that the cooperative is working on a comprehensive sustainability strategy focusing on climate-smart agriculture, reducing plastic packaging and engaging growers in environmental stewardship.
An example of a sustainable packaging innovation is the implementation of a resealable top seal film on clamshells, replacing a traditional plastic lid. This packaging is used for blueberries and blackberries. By replacing the plastic lid with a film lid, the company has decreased plastic content of the clamshells by 30-35 percent. The light weight of the clamshells reduces fuel consumption and emissions during transportation, contributing to the overall sustainability of packaging. For apples, a 100 percent recyclable poly bag is used in addition to renewable, recyclable, and biodegradable paper bags. These bags are labeled as 100% recyclable and include recycling instructions for consumer convenience.
Collaboration with Measure to Improve
To help develop a sustainability strategy that will continue driving long-term economic growth and support their network of growers, North Bay Produce has taken on the help of the fresh produce industry's go-to sustainability experts, Measure to Improve.
The grower-owned cooperative will work with Measure to Improve to build upon work already done, prioritize and focus its sustainability efforts and ensure that its vast network of growers are supported and involved in the process.
"Our sustainability strategy is about collaboration and partnership. We want to meet our cooperative members where they are on this journey and for them to understand the value of their sustainability efforts. Measure to Improve holds similar values to North Bay Produce and understands the level of depth of our cooperative. We are excited to work in partnership with them to enhance our sustainability initiatives and look forward to sharing more about our progress in the coming year" notes Jennifer Pulcipher, Director of Food Safety & Sustainability.
Original Article on freshplaza.com