Fyffes works to contribute to a more sustainable future, and have achieved a milestone in these efforts. Last season, 100% of Fyffes melons were transported in repurposed and recycled wood pallets, a significant contribution towards a circular economy. With the new 2019/2020 melon season underway, Fyffes continues to use recyclable pallets in its melon operations while expanding its use across its other products.
Over the past decade Fyffes has significantly reduced its carbon footprint through different initiatives that support the first pillar of Fyffes global Sustainability Strategy – Stewardship for the Planet. One of these initiatives is the use of repurposed and recycled pallets to transport millions of boxes of Fyffes fruit worldwide, through a partnership with CHEP (Commonwealth Handling Equipment Pool). As a result of this ongoing partnership, all of Fyffes melons were transported in CHEP pallets during the 2018-2019 off-shore season, and their use in transporting bananas is increasing as well.
Studies show repurposed and recycled wood pallets have the lowest environmental impact compared with limited-use and plastic pallets: a circular and reusable solution allow for reutilization, transport and resource efficiencies resulting in major sustainability savings. In 2018 alone Fyffes saved 337 million pounds (153 million kg) of solid waste, reduced energy usage by 19%, and avoided 254,406 pounds (115,397 kg) of greenhouse gases being released into the atmosphere. This is equivalent to 1,038 cubic yards (794 cubic meters) of landfill space, 1,259 barrels of oil, and 10,966 trees planted and grown for 10 years.
Erick Pinot, General Manager in Central America for CHEP, says “We feel proud to partner with Fyffes and share our commitment to make the world a better place through the circular economy that these pallets offer. This provides the benefit of acquiring a sustainable product in a society that is engaged with the planet now more than ever.”
Julie Cournoyer, Fyffes Global Director of Sustainability also commented on the strategic partnership with CHEP: “At Fyffes we align our sustainability approach to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This partnership helps Fyffes improve on SDG 12 - ‘Responsible Consumption and Production’ as well as SDG 13 – ‘Climate Action,’” two key sustainability goals for Fyffes.
For more information: 
Azul Meza
Fyffes
Email: ameza@fyffes.com
www.fyffes.com