Episode
20

Climate Change & The Impact on Produce Supply Chain – with Ed Treacy, VP Supply Chain & Sustainability at PMA

November 3, 2021
|
Duration:
2454697
Apple Podcast Icon
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Spotify icon
Listen on Spotify

In This Episode:

Join energy coaches David Arkell, John Pooley, and Produce Marketing Association (PMA)’s VP Supply Chain and Sustainability Ed Treacy on an episode about climate change and the produce supply chain. This episode features challenges with climate changes, retail pressures and accountability,  and produce sustainability focuses such as food loss, packaging, renewable energy, carbon and greenhouse gases, water, and more.

Highlights

  • Climate Challenges for Growers: Climate change introduces unpredictable weather patterns, such as hurricanes, frosts, and droughts, which disrupt supply stability and impact prices and distribution within the produce supply chain.
  • Pressure from Investors and Consumers: Increasing demand for transparency on environmental impact from both investors and consumers is pushing retailers to evaluate and report their sustainability efforts, extending these expectations to their supply chains.
  • Supply Chain Resilience and Policy: The pandemic has highlighted the need for resilient supply chains. Government initiatives are beginning to prioritize food security by addressing the stability of supply lines, including those for produce.
  • Sustainability in Practice: The PMA advocates for growers to adopt sustainable practices across seven key areas: packaging, food waste, water use, energy use, pest management, soil health, and emissions, to reduce environmental impacts.
  • Retailers' Role in Sustainability: Leading retailers are setting stringent environmental standards for their suppliers, requiring them to meet specific sustainability criteria to remain competitive in the market.
  • Key Insights

  • Importance of Data in Sustainability: Collecting and reporting data on carbon emissions and other environmental impacts is critical for companies to monitor progress, comply with regulations, and meet market expectations.
  • Packaging and Recycling: Sustainable packaging is a major focus, with an industry shift toward recyclable and compostable materials to reduce single-use plastics in produce. Retailers are increasingly demanding these solutions from suppliers.
  • Adapting to Consumer Demands: Consumers are seeking transparency regarding the environmental impact of their produce. Sharing the "story" behind the products has become a competitive advantage in the market.
  • Energy and Water Efficiency: The produce industry is adopting alternative energy sources, such as solar power, and improving water management practices, like drip irrigation, to conserve resources and enhance sustainability.
  • Carbon Footprint and Emission Reduction: Companies are exploring carbon credits and implementing sustainable practices to lower their carbon footprint. The PMA is actively educating members on best practices and the benefits of engaging in carbon markets.
  • Prev

    Loading...

    Next

    Loading...