Planet, People, Prosperity

Exactly how sustainably minded is the fresh produce industry? To find out, PMA surveyed our members to benchmark both how they define and practice sustainability.

First, how to define sustainability? According to our 2009 findings, 92 percent of respondents strongly or somewhat agreed with PMA's definition: “The way companies manage their businesses to produce overall positive impact on society through environmental, economic and social actions.” That is, they defined sustainability as planet, people and prosperity.

Second, how committed is industry? Despite the fact that we're in a severe economic downturn, a remarkable 89 percent of respondents reported that sustainability is a company priority. That commitment manifests itself in sourcing policies; increasing energy efficiency, water conversation and water quality; improving community relations; and more.

What's driving industry? Less than 30 percent of respondents projected a date when their sustainability efforts would break even, and more than 65 percent weren't sure about the projected return on investment. Respondents cited both strategic and tactical reasons for committing resources to sustainability. On one hand, they seek to add value to their products and services, reduce environmental risk and enhance their brand; on the other hand, they seek to reduce costs, to do more with less.

At the center of it all: consumers. More than 80 percent of respondents reported that consumers are the primary drivers of their sustainability efforts. No other external audience — e.g., environmental groups, media or government —came close.