What is the story about?
What's Happening?
CMI Orchards has introduced a new initiative called CMI SOARS: Sustainable Orchards and Regenerative Solutions, aimed at promoting sustainability and regenerative agriculture within the tree fruit industry. According to Bob Mast, president of CMI Orchards, sustainability is integral to the company's operations and collaborations. The program includes a comprehensive greenhouse gas inventory, annual sustainability reports, and the development of regenerative products and solutions. It emphasizes transparency and innovation to meet the evolving needs of the fresh produce industry. The initiative aims to improve orchard health, boost yields, and deliver nutrient-rich fruit to the market, while setting sustainable goals and emission-reduction targets.
Why It's Important?
The SOARS program is significant as it aligns with global sustainability goals and offers direct business value to retail partners. By sourcing regeneratively grown fruit, retailers can enhance their supply chains, reduce emissions, and engage environmentally conscious consumers. The initiative supports transparency by sharing real data and clear goals, which helps retailers align with their own sustainability objectives. This approach not only addresses environmental health but also provides marketable developments in human health, potentially influencing consumer choices and industry standards.
What's Next?
CMI Orchards plans to share the results of its nutrient testing, comparing traditionally grown fruit to those produced in regeneratively enriched orchards. This data will be used to further market the benefits of regenerative practices. The company has also launched a dedicated landing page for the SOARS initiative, providing resources, updates, and insights into its projects and commitments. As the program progresses, CMI Orchards aims to open retail pathways for regeneratively grown products, fostering a narrative that resonates with today's environmentally conscious shoppers.
Beyond the Headlines
The SOARS initiative highlights the ethical and environmental dimensions of agricultural practices. By focusing on regenerative agriculture, CMI Orchards is contributing to long-term shifts in how food is produced and consumed. This approach not only benefits the environment but also supports the health of communities and ecosystems, potentially setting a precedent for other industries to follow.
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