In conjunction with Earth Day, The Pet Food Institute (PFI), whose members make the vast majority of all U.S. dog and cat food and treats, unveiled a sustainability initiative, including a webpage, sustainability statement and pillars of emphasis.
“The new sustainability statement encompasses PFI members’ values regarding sustainability,” said PFI President and CEO Dana Brooks. “U.S. pet food makers are committed to a safe and clean environment in which people and pets can live healthy lives. PFI members recognize their role in supporting three essential pillars of sustainability: our planet, our people and pets and our economy.”
In the coming months, PFI will highlight members’ sustainability activities with spotlights on the website and social media. “Sustainability Spotlights” will center around the three pillars.
“Our members are already making a difference by increasing recycled content in packaging, responsibly sourcing ingredients, funding research to improve pet health, donating pet food and actively engaging in community activities,” Brooks said. “They are committed to proactively seeking new ways to support our planet, people and pets and the economy.”
Pet food brand sustainability strategy planning
Developing a sustainability plan can help a pet food company focus their efforts to truly benefit both the environment and the bottom line, while avoiding ineffectual or insincere projects, according to a previous reporting by Tim Wall.
Euromonitor International’s report “Building a Sustainable Strategy: A Guide for Business Leaders,” provided a guide for developing a workable sustainability strategy that will withstand both pet owner and C-suite scrutiny. These five steps can guide a pet food company professional as they plan a sustainability program for their brands.
The five steps include:
- Step 1: Engage
- Step 2: Prioritize
- Step 3: Collaborate
- Step 4: Report
- Step 5: Communicate
