As the world continues to experience the effects of climate change, Chiquita is reaffirming its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint through sustainable agriculture practices. The brand has implemented various farm rejuvenation and reengineering practices through its “Farmers’ Code,” an arm of Chiquita’s “Behind the Blue Sticker” strategic vision that aims to improve efficiency, increase yield, and reduce yield Chiquita’s environmental impact while ensuring optimal Chiquita banana quality.

Currently, 59% of all Chiquita farms have been rejuvenated, resulting in higher yields and reduced waste. By rearranging the drainage systems and levelling uneven surfaces on farms, the company has seen a 20% increase in productivity with an 80% decrease in CaCO3/ha. Chiquita has also implemented the use of “cover crops,” which assist in soil erosion and has helped the brand reduce its herbicide use by 36%. Chiquita has lowered its plant material waste by over two-thirds compared to non-rejuvenated farms in all rejuvenated areas. This rejuvenation process has been a priority for Chiquita since 2015, and the company expects by 2022, over 75% of its land will be complete.

Chiquita’s commitment to sustainable practices extends past its farms. Earlier this year, the company announced its “30by30” sustainability program, aiming to reduce carbon emissions across brand operations by 30% by the end of 2030. With this program, Chiquita became the first global fruit company to be recognized by the Science-Based Target Initiative (SBTi). Following the Paris Agreement, Chiquita set a fully detailed roadmap until 2030 with clear objectives to reduce energy consumption by moving to greener electricity. It will be using solar panels and wind turbines, replacing diesel use by switching to biofuels or electric vehicles, and reducing nitrogen emissions from fertilizers. The company has also prioritised working closely with its supply chain partners to develop its Science-Based plan by 2025.

The brand is working closely with the SBTi to ensure that it can reduce its emissions as planned. Additionally, Chiquita has received various certifications from environmental organizations such as the Rainforest Alliance and Global GAP for its work to promote biodiversity and sustainable agriculture.