With World Water Day today March 22, Chiquita Brands International said it is proud to announce its efforts to minimize water waste and promote global sustainability. Chiquita’s farm rejuvenation programs and water recycling systems are helping the company to reduce its water use by over 1.7 billion liters per year, the company said in a release.
According to Chiquita, not only does it use irrigation where it is strictly necessary, it has also eliminated use of wasteful overhead irrigation. As part of its farm rejuvenation program, Chiquita shared that it is investing in mini and micro irrigation, which currently covers 6.5 percent of its irrigated land, and uses live ground cover and mulches that reduce evaporation to ensure that the greatest efficiency possible for water abstraction. The company also utilizes ‘green water’ at its Costa Rica and Panama farms, which consists of rainfall, rather than treated ‘blue’ water.
The company mentioned it is also working to reduce the two percent of water used during processing. It is currently installing water recycling systems and introducing ‘dry de-handling,’ which allows bananas to be separated from the main stalk without using water. Water recycling systems have been installed in 26 percent of Chiquita’s packing stations. This has enabled the company to reduce its water use by over 1.7 billion liters per year, which results in 80 percent more water savings compared to stations without the system, it said.
Land preservation also plays a key role in reducing water waste, the company added. Aside from maintaining the condition of its banana farms, Chiquita has partnered with The San San Project in an effort to improve living conditions and environmental awareness of local farming communities. This includes conserving forests, lagoons and beaches on the borders of Costa Rica and Panama.
For more information:
Bridget Mackey
Ph: +1 (973) 588-2000
bmackey@coynepr.com
www.chiquita.com