Pilot aims to cut emissions in potato farming
Ahold Delhaize USA, a leading grocery retail group, has launched a significant environmental initiative to curb emissions within its potato supply chain.
This effort is part of a broader move to tackle Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions, which are a critical component of the company's sustainability strategy.
Over the next three years, Ahold Delhaize will partner with The Campbell’s Company to focus on sustainable potato farming across three key states: North Carolina, New York, and Michigan.
The initiative spans 1,000 acres, an area that annually produces the potatoes needed for Campbell’s products sold in Ahold Delhaize USA stores.
These include popular items like Kettle Brand chips, Cape Cod chips, and Campbell’s soups.
The project will mix potatoes grown under the new, sustainable practices with those cultivated through conventional farming methods, enhancing the sustainability of these beloved products.
The core of this pilot includes practices designed to improve soil health and increase carbon sequestration.
Techniques such as cover cropping, compost application, nutrient management, and the use of renewable energy in farming equipment are all on the agenda.
These methods not only aim to reduce carbon footprints but also bolster agricultural resilience against climate change.
Ahold Delhaize and Campbell’s are committed to rigorous monitoring of soil health and emission reductions, ensuring that their efforts yield measurable environmental benefits.
This project builds on Campbell’s longstanding commitment to sustainable agriculture, which has included all its potato suppliers since 2023.
This pilot is among several initiatives by Ahold Delhaize USA and Campbell’s to fulfill their Scope 3 emission reduction commitments.
Beyond potatoes, Campbell’s efforts span across various crops, including tomatoes in California and grains like flour and wheat in the U.S., emphasizing their dedication to sustainable farming practices across the board.