Oppy Releases Second Annual Sustainability Report; Garland Perkins and David Smith Share


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Wed. April 3rd, 2024 - by Jenna Plasterer

NEWARK, DE - Spotlighting its achievements in sustainability, Oppy recently released the second edition of its sustainability report, “Expect the world from us.”

Garland Perkins, Director of Innovation and Sustainability, Oppy
Garland Perkins, Director of Innovation and Sustainability, Oppy

"When I began leading Oppy's sustainability efforts, I knew we were already doing impactful work,” began Director of Innovation and Sustainability Garland Perkins. “Now, with the second report, we are excited to demonstrate the legitimacy and depth of our progress. Our approach to sustainability reflects our commitment to 'doing the right thing' for the environment and our people, while aligning with the business' needs and realities."

This update has evolved from the inaugural report released a year ago, which consisted of benchmark data related to Oppy’s five ongoing focus areas: greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, food waste, water use, packaging materials, and impact on people and communities.

Spotlighting its achievements in sustainability, Oppy recently released the second edition of its sustainability report, “Expect the world from us”

In the 2024 report, a press release outlined, Oppy has transitioned from tactical initiatives to focus on more significant, global-impact projects. The company is addressing critical challenges within its supply chain, moving beyond quantifying efforts to tackle more complex issues.

David Smith, President and Chief Operating Officer, Oppy
David Smith, President and Chief Operating Officer, Oppy

“As an industry, we are all in this together,” shared President and Chief Operating Officer David Smith. “While Oppy’s global presence and unique role in the supply chain has the potential for staggering impact — when it comes to sustainability, we believe in collaboration over competition. Which is why we are committed to working with partners, stakeholders, and competitors to create a sustainable tomorrow for all and drive meaningful change.”

Key highlights from the 2024 report include:

  • Oppy received SmartWay certification in the fall of 2023
  • 119,062 kilowatt hours (kWh) were generated from renewable sources
  • Oppy’s upcycling partnerships for food waste and recycled materials resulted in the reduction of 74 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (mtCO2e) and 430 mtCO2e, respectively
  • As the leading marketer of Fair Trade-certified bell peppers, $1,574,965 in premium funds for farmworkers and their communities amounted from 26 million of the 34.9 million lbs of total certified produce sold in 2023

For more highlights, click here.

We always applaud the efforts of companies working hard to make our planet just a little bit better.