Danone North America has announced its collaboration with other major corporations to convert food waste into renewable energy. The dairy and yoghurt industry leader is set to become a key member of the Farm-Powered Strategic Alliance, a groundbreaking initiative that harnesses farm-based anaerobic digesters to transform inedible food waste into renewable natural gas.
This strategic alliance, spearheaded by Vanguard Renewables, pioneers a transformative approach to reduce food waste, produce renewable energy, and promote regenerative agricultural practices. Vanguard Renewables initiated the endeavour in 2020, forging partnerships with industry giants such as Starbucks, Unilever, and the Dairy Farmers of America.
Vanguard Renewables, the largest anaerobic digester operator in the United States, is currently in a phase of significant expansion following its acquisition by a BlackRock Real Assets-managed fund for approximately $700 million last year. With ambitious plans to operate over 150 sites equipped with biodigesters, Vanguard Renewables is poised to lead the way in the renewable energy sector.
This collaboration underscores the growing prominence of anaerobic digesters and similar technologies in the sustainability strategies of major corporations. Danone, for instance, has pledged to slash its methane emissions by 30% by 2030 and intends to achieve this target by scaling up its programmes and partnering with suppliers who utilize composting or biodigesters to convert manure into fertilizer, as outlined in its 2022 annual report.
Chris Adamo, Vice President of Public Affairs and Regenerative Agriculture Policy at Danone North America, expressed enthusiasm for the company’s involvement in the alliance with Vanguard Renewables and other industry leaders. He emphasized the importance of collective action in accelerating the adoption of sustainable practices, reducing food waste, and contributing to the development of a circular economy.
Notably, dairy manure represents the largest source of methane emissions from livestock management systems in the United States. Biodigesters are pivotal in mitigating these emissions, with more than 200 systems currently in operation on dairy farms across the country. These biodigesters capture approximately 4.3 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, according to data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Danone’s commitment to this alliance signifies a significant step towards a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future where food waste is harnessed as a valuable resource in the fight against climate change.