WASHINGTON - The completion of a program usually feels like a weight has been lifted. For Equitable Food Initiative (EFI), that is an accomplishment two years in the making. EFI and Measure to Improve recently announced the successful completion of the two-year Produce & Reduce pilot program which was implemented on three farming operations and funded by the California Workforce Development Board (CWDB).

“The program has the potential to have a major effect on greenhouse gas reductions throughout the fresh produce industry,” said Lilian Autler, Organizational and Workforce Development Manager for EFI. “We would not have seen this level of success without having the support of Measure to Improve, the participating farming operations, partners, and local and state government. EFI has always been a catalyst in bringing people together, and this project is more proof that greater success is had when everyone has a seat at the table.”

According to the release, the group reported reductions of CO₂ emissions during the pilot equivalent of 1 million miles driven by an average gasoline-powered vehicle and hopes this provides an example to be learned from and replicated throughout the industry.

Measure to Improve worked closely with EFI to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by implementing new waste reduction efforts. The three participating EFI-certified operations—Andrew & Williamson Fresh Produce/GoodFarms, Misionero, and Windset Farms®—each created a Green Team to assess current levels of waste; identify areas for improvement; and implement training, education, and other efforts to increase waste diversion from landfill.

“This program showed that sustainability efforts are most effective when a holistic approach is taken, when management is committed, and when workers at all levels know and understand the environmental impact of their actions,” remarked Kieran Ficken, Director of Sustainability Programs for Measure to Improve. “We are incredibly pleased with the results and are looking forward to sharing a full case study soon.”

On March 8, EFI and Measure to Improve hosted a collaborative roundtable of 50 attendees, including workers and managers from the three participating farms, local waste management representatives, and local officials. The roundtable event celebrated the conclusion of the grant and pilot program; highlighted final project findings; and featured a discussion on ways to promote environmental sustainability in the fresh produce industry based on project learnings, best practices, and on-farm experiences.

Each of the three participating farms saw impressive reductions in amounts and types of waste and implemented revenue-positive recycling efforts. Initial results presented 144 tons of waste material were diverted from the landfill and 435 metric tons of carbon dioxide were saved.

Keep an eye out for more powerful partnerships and programs in the works.

Equitable Food Initiative