Cargill, a global leader in the food industry, has invested $78 million in sustainability and efficiency initiatives, as detailed in their 2023 ESG report. This was divided into reducing greenhouse gases, the pursuit of renewable energy, and implementing regenerative agriculture practices, among others.
As of 2022, Cargill reported surpassing its target of a 10% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions and achieving a 10.97% decrease against its 2017 baseline. According to the company, this success is attributed to the effective implementation of process efficiencies, advanced technologies in operations, and a shift towards renewable energy consumption.
Renewable energy is another noteworthy pursuit. Partnering with PLN, an Indonesian government-owned utility, the company has secured over 70,000 megawatt hours of clean electricity. This initiative supports seven of Cargill’s sites in Indonesia, cutting down over 50,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
Additionally, Cargill is involved in 14 ongoing projects across 12 countries, mainly through Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) for wind and solar energy. These efforts, along with four upcoming contracts, are expected to reduce carbon emissions by 715,000 tonnes annually once fully operational in 2024.
Cargill boosts regenerative agriculture efforts
Cargill is also making strides in regenerative agriculture. Since 2020, the company has implemented sustainable practices on 880,000 acres in North America, edging closer to its 2030 goal of 10 million acres. These practices include cover cropping, reduced tillage, rotational grazing, and optimized nutrient management.
The company’s Cargill RegenConnect program plays a pivotal role, expanding from 15 to 24 US states and into several European countries, rewarding farmers for contributing to soil health and environmental benefits.
Additionally, the company has restored over 9 billion liters of water in the past year, as well as given over $115 million to support partners and local communities. This has successfully accounted for more than 20 million meals globally over the past year.
Brian Sikes, president and CEO of Cargill, emphasized the company’s commitment to addressing global challenges through the food system.
“When it comes to urgent challenges facing people and the planet, Cargill’s connections across the food system give us the opportunity – and responsibility – to deliver meaningful solutions,” said Sikes. “The problem-solving potential of agriculture has always been essential in nourishing people, supporting the livelihoods of farmers and food workers, and unlocking opportunities for growth.
“Leading with our values, Cargill is working to help achieve zero hunger, decarbonize our industries, protect and restore natural resources, and ultimately improve people’s lives.”
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