Danone North America joins national movement to turn food waste into renewable energy

Danone North America, a global food and beverage company, has joined the Farm Powered Strategic Alliance, a collaborative movement that aims to revolutionize food waste recycling and expand renewable energy production across America.

Founded in 2020 by Vanguard Renewables, a Weston, Massachusetts-based developer of renewable energy projects, as well as Unilever, Starbucks and Dairy Farmers of America, the alliance has now grown to include 17 industry leaders from various sectors.

The addition of Danone to the Farm Powered Strategic Alliance marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of sustainable solutions for food waste and renewable energy, Vanguard says.

“With a shared commitment to environmental stewardship, the alliance members are pooling their expertise to drive positive change across industries,” states the company in a release announcing the addition of Danone to the alliance.

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“Danone’s decision to join the Farm Powered Strategic Alliance is a testament to their dedication to sustainability and their recognition of the urgent need to address food waste and renewable energy challenges,” says Neil H. Smith, CEO of Vanguard Renewables. “Together, we will accelerate the transition to a circular economy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enable a more sustainable future for generations to come.”

Vanguard partners with food and beverage manufacturers to recycle their inedible food waste via anaerobic digestion, which converts organic waste into renewable natural gas (RNG). This RNG is then used to generate electricity, heat and transportation fuel.

“We are excited to join the conversation with Vanguard Renewables and other industry leaders in the Farm Powered Strategic Alliance,” says Chris Adamo, vice president of public affairs and regenerative agriculture policy at Danone North America. “By working together, we can accelerate the understanding and adoption of sustainable practices, reduce food waste and contribute to a more circular economy. This collaboration aligns well with the intent of our Danone Impact Journey which acts as our blueprint for defining our sustainability priorities and our transformation ambition in our value chain.”