In a groundbreaking development for sustainable practices, global food and beverage giant Danone North America has joined the Farm Powered Strategic Alliance, a collaborative movement aiming to innovate food waste recycling and expand renewable energy production across America. Initiated in 2020 by Vanguard Renewables, Unilever, Starbucks, and Dairy Farmers of America, the Alliance has grown to include 17 industry leaders from diverse sectors.
Danone’s inclusion in the Alliance signals a momentous milestone for the sustainability movement. “Danone’s decision to join the Farm Powered Strategic Alliance is a testament to their dedication to sustainability and recognition of the urgent need to address food waste and renewable energy challenges,” remarked Neil H. Smith, the Chief Executive Officer of Vanguard Renewables.
Vanguard Renewables partners with food and beverage manufacturers to recycle their inedible food waste using Farm Powered® anaerobic digestion technology. This process transforms organic waste into renewable natural gas (RNG), which is then used to generate electricity, heat, and fuel for transportation. By diverting food waste from landfills and converting it into clean energy, Vanguard Renewables has been making a considerable environmental impact and creating economic opportunities for farmers and local communities.
Danone’s VP of Public Affairs and Regenerative Agriculture Policy, Chris Adamo, expressed enthusiasm for the Alliance. “By working together, we can accelerate the understanding and adoption of sustainable practices, reduce food waste, and contribute to a more circular economy,” he said.
The Farm Powered Strategic Alliance is deeply committed to driving systemic change by promoting sustainable waste reduction and repurposing practices, expanding the availability of renewable natural gas, and supporting generational dairy farmers across America. Danone’s membership adds invaluable expertise in sustainable agriculture and gives the Alliance a broader global reach.
As the Alliance continues to broaden its membership base, it strengthens its collective impact and sets new environmental responsibility standards. The partnership is a testament to the strength of multi-industry collaborations in bringing about tangible change.
Headquartered in Weston, Massachusetts, Vanguard Renewables is a national leader in developing food and dairy waste-to-renewable energy projects. The company aims to expand to more than 150 anaerobic digestion facilities by 2026 and is a BlackRock Real Assets portfolio company.
Danone North America operates in three health-focused, fast-growing categories: Essential Dairy and plant-based products, Waters, and Specialized Nutrition. With a mission of bringing health through food to as many people as possible, Danone generated €27.7 billion in sales in 2022.
This partnership represents a monumental step in the quest for a more sustainable, environmentally responsible future. With the private and public sectors actively seeking solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues, the Farm Powered Strategic Alliance provides a model for how collaboration can result in transformative change.
Image provided by The Farm Powered Strategic Alliance
