Taking steps to manage sustainability along the supply chain makes good business sense for dairy processors. Indeed, 2018 research by The Nielsen Co. LLC, New York, reveals that 81% of global consumers and 69% of those in the United States say that it’s very important or extremely important that companies implement programs to help the environment.

A company’s environmental sustainability story — or lack thereof — is increasingly influencing consumer purchasing habits. In fact, a recent survey from IBM Institute for Business Value found that 54% of consumers “are willing to pay a premium for brands that are sustainable and/or environmentally responsible.”

Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important subject for dairy processors. With more operators seeking to “go green” to meet the growing eco-focus by consumers, retailers, and business partners, the ability to reduce wastewater and energy during production can cut costs while enhancing a company’s “eco halo.”