SALINAS, CA - While reaching milestones is an achievement in itself, there’s just a little something extra special about achieving an industry-first milestone. As of yesterday, Taylor Farms can proudly say it’s done it, with three certifications to boot. The fresh salad company received the U.S. Green Building Council TRUE platinum zero waste certification at three of its California facilities, a first in the fresh food industry according to its press release.

“Now more than ever before, we are noticing a shift in customers, consumers, and business partners to be increasingly more aware of the source of their food and the sustainable practices behind that food production,” said Bruce Taylor, Chairman and CEO, Taylor Farms. “We are proud that Taylor Farms is at the forefront of developing and identifying sustainability practices that are breaking down barriers and establishing new norms within the industry. Consumers should be confident that our product offerings are helping them to lead healthy lives while contributing to a healthy environment and healthy communities.”

Taylor Farms received the zero-waste certification at three facilities in Monterey County, California. The facilities were recognized for diverting over 95 percent of materials from the environment, incinerators, and landfills and achieving 90 percent energy independence from the utility grid through unique microgrid solutions. According to the press release, Taylor Farms reduced 175,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions in just two years, equivalent to 37,000 cars off the road annually. These facilities are the first fresh food facilities to achieve the TRUE platinum certification.

Taylor Farms partnered up with Concentric Power, Bloom Energy, REC Solar, and Foundation Wind Power to build the groundbreaking microgrid and Environmental Management System (EMS). The microgrid energy solutions are made up of renewable and alternative energy sources including solar, wind, fuel cells, and cogeneration. But the sustainability journey doesn’t end there; Taylor Farms has over 10 major sustainability initiatives across North America including solar, wind, fuel cells, cogeneration, zero waste, water recycling, and more.

“When implementing Taylor Farms' EMS program, our main goal is to preserve a healthier world for future generations to come. We are so thrilled to have been recognized and receive this historic certification for the work we are doing at these facilities,” said Nicole Flewell, Director of Sustainability, Taylor Farms. “It’s exciting to look forward to the future and start to understand the change that we can have as an industry if we continue to put sustainability at the forefront of our efforts.”

Through the EMS programs, Taylor Farms pledges to roll out zero-waste programs nationally and establish a new standard for environmental sustainability throughout the country with the support from partners like sustainability consultants Measure to Improve (MTI). With Taylor Farms’ increasing efforts, other companies are sure to take notice.

“We commend Taylor Farms for its leadership and climate action achievements, which have made a positive impact in our shared sustainability journey,” said Townsend Bailey, Director, North America Sustainability, McDonald’s.

A round of applause for Taylor Farms and the company’s latest achievement! For more industry-breaking news, keep a tab open for AndNowUKnow.

Taylor Farms