PepsiCo Foods North America (PFNA) stands at the forefront of a crucial dialogue about water stewardship, recognizing it as both a vital resource and a business imperative. Led by the passionate Melissa Jones, who has transitioned from marketing to sustainability, PFNA is pioneering initiatives that aim to make the company Net Water Positive by 2030. This ambitious goal not only reflects corporate responsibility but also acknowledges the pressing reality of water scarcity facing communities worldwide.
Jones emphasizes that water stewardship is ingrained in PFNA’s ethos. “Our vision is that wherever in the world we operate, water resources will be in a better state because of our presence.” This commitment manifests in a multi-faceted approach that encompasses improving water-use efficiency across the entire value chain. From farms to manufacturing facilities, PFNA is actively working to replenish water sources and enhance the health of high water-risk watersheds. Moreover, the company is dedicated to increasing access to safe water for communities grappling with water insecurity.
Recent projects have showcased PFNA’s innovative spirit in reducing water consumption significantly. One standout advancement is the new cooking process for corn used in popular snacks like Tostitos and Doritos. This cutting-edge method has resulted in an impressive 70% reduction in water usage compared to previous technologies—all while maintaining the quality and safety of the product. Additionally, PFNA has developed custom technology to recapture and recirculate water from potato slicing and peeling processes, which is crucial for reducing freshwater consumption in the production of Lay’s and Ruffles.
But PFNA isn’t going it alone. The company understands that collaboration amplifies impact. By participating in the Alliance for Water Stewardship, PFNA aligns with a global movement dedicated to sustainable water use. This partnership not only facilitates knowledge sharing but also helps the company adopt the AWS Standard at its high water-risk facilities, ensuring that freshwater resources are preserved for all stakeholders. Jones highlights the importance of this collaboration, stating, “We recognize that acting alone cannot have as strong of an impact as collaborative action.”
Moreover, partnerships with organizations like Trout Unlimited demonstrate PFNA’s commitment to restoring local watersheds. The initiative to build a mile-long channel to connect segments of the Colorado River blocked by the Windy Gap Reservoir near Denver exemplifies how PFNA is taking tangible steps to address water challenges in specific regions.
Looking ahead, PFNA is poised to leverage technology further in its quest for water conservation. The company is exploring ways to capture water and heat released during the frying of potatoes, with plans to treat and reuse this resource. This technology, already in use in India, represents a significant opportunity for PFNA to expand its resource conservation initiatives.
As the water crisis looms larger on the global stage, PFNA’s initiatives could serve as a blueprint for other companies in the food and beverage sector. The question remains: will this momentum spark a broader movement toward sustainable practices across industries? The stakes are high, and the time for action is now.
