Key Takeaways:
- AI-Powered Innovation: ofi deployed BeeHome™ technology to protect over 650,000 bees in California, addressing significant pollinator colony losses.
- Global Impact: Notable initiatives include regenerative agriculture trials in California, advanced farming training for 7,000 hazelnut farmers in Turkey, and premium payments to cashew farmers in Africa and Asia doubling to $2 million.
- Social Outreach: Nutrition and health support programs reached over 116,500 people in cashew-growing regions.
- Sustainability Goals: Progress aligns with ofi’s 2030 Nut Trails targets under four key pillars: Prosperous Farmers, Thriving Communities, Climate Action, and Regenerating the Living World.
- Collaborative Partnerships: ofi worked with 13 partners, committing $2 million to sustainability programs in 2023.
ofi, a global leader in nut ingredients, has published its 2023 ‘Nut Trails’ Sustainability Impact Report, showcasing innovative projects and expanded social outreach across its almond, cashew, and hazelnut operations. The report highlights significant strides toward ofi’s 2030 sustainability goals, focusing on farmers’ prosperity, community well-being, climate action, and environmental regeneration.
AI-Powered Beehives and Regenerative Practices in California
In California, ofi deployed AI-powered BeeHome™ technology to protect over 650,000 bees, a critical step amid reported U.S. colony losses exceeding 45% in the 2022-2023 crop year. This innovative technology complements ofi’s regenerative agriculture efforts under the KIND Almond Acres Initiative, testing practices across 500 acres to enhance soil health and sustainability. Additionally, ofi introduced irrigation decision support tools that optimize water use and offset 85% of energy consumption on its Australian almond orchards through renewable sources.
Empowering Farmers and Communities Globally
ofi’s impact extended beyond the U.S., with programs targeting sustainability and resilience in farming communities worldwide:
- In Turkey, more than 7,000 hazelnut farmers received training in advanced crop residue management and composting to promote climate-smart practices.
- In Africa and Asia, premium payments to cashew farmers nearly doubled to $2 million, and nutrition and health initiatives reached over 116,500 people in cashew-growing regions.
- In Côte d’Ivoire, ofi partnered with the National Nutrition Program to screen over 14,000 children for malnutrition using geo-location technology.
Collaborative Progress
ofi’s achievements were made possible through partnerships with customers, NGOs, and industry bodies, totaling $2 million in joint funding. These collaborations include work with Mars on regenerative agriculture in California and other initiatives to support sustainable practices across nut value chains.
Ashok Krishen, CEO of ofi’s nuts platform, emphasized the importance of tailored approaches: “Behind every nut are differing and varied sustainability challenges, requiring specific investments and partnerships. I look forward to continuing our collaboration and invite new partners to join us in delivering sustainable choices from seed to snack.”
Accelerating Toward 2030 Goals
ofi’s 2023 progress aligns with its Choices for Change strategy, focusing on measurable outcomes through its Nut Trails impact pillars:
- Prosperous Farmers: Increasing financial stability for farming communities.
- Thriving Communities: Expanding social programs for better health and nutrition.
- Climate Action: Reducing carbon emissions and improving water and energy efficiency.
- Regenerating the Living World: Protecting biodiversity and improving soil health.
Burcu Turkay, Global Head of Sustainability for Nuts, reflected on the year’s achievements: “Implementing successful sustainability programs requires flexibility and openness to new technologies, approaches, and business models. To meet our ambitious 2030 goals, we need to accelerate progress through strong and impactful collaboration.”
Read the entire report here.
