The sustainability landscape for food companies in the U.S. is evolving as regulatory pressures shift under the Trump administration. Despite this, interest in emission-tracking technology and other environmental, social, and governance (ESG) tools remains strong. HowGood, a platform used by major food companies like Nestlé, Mars, and Danone, analyzes agricultural data to help companies gather information for sustainability disclosures, particularly around Scope 3 emissions.
In the face of environmental rollbacks by the current administration and a softening of green efforts by some corporations, HowGood is expanding its partnership with Watershed to help companies track their carbon footprint and identify solutions to reduce emissions. This move comes as climate reporting is increasingly becoming tied to a company’s bottom line and legal risk analysis, shifting from the realm of sustainability officers to CFOs and chief legal officers.
While some governments around the world are pulling back on sustainability regulation, companies are still prioritizing climate action. California and New York continue to enforce climate disclosure mandates, and consumer demand for sustainability remains high. The tangible environmental impact of food and beverage products makes the industry ripe for innovation and improvement in sustainability practices.
The use of artificial intelligence in the supply chain of food companies presents both opportunities and challenges for environmental advocates. While AI can help streamline operations and improve efficiency, it also has a taxing impact on the climate. Balancing the benefits of AI with the need to minimize environmental impact is crucial for companies looking to enhance their sustainability efforts.
Overall, the intersection of sustainability and profitability is becoming increasingly important for food companies, as they navigate changing regulatory landscapes and consumer expectations. By leveraging technology and partnerships like the one between HowGood and Watershed, companies can continue to make progress towards their climate goals and demonstrate their commitment to sustainability.
