In a groundbreaking move towards a more sustainable future, Divert, Inc., an impact technology firm, has announced a significant collaboration with Blue Diamond Growers, the world-renowned almond cooperative. This partnership aims to revolutionize the almond industry by converting almond processing byproducts into renewable energy and nutrient-rich soil amendments. This initiative not only addresses sustainability goals but also contributes to California’s ambitious target of achieving net-zero carbon pollution by 2045. The collaboration is an exemplary model of how technological innovations can be harnessed to transform waste into valuable resources, benefiting both the environment and the community.
Revamping Almond Byproduct Usage
Innovations in Utilizing Almond Byproducts
Blue Diamond Growers has a long and storied history of innovating ways to use all parts of the almond. Historically, their product innovations have included items such as almond flour, almond oil, and almond protein powder, ensuring that minimal waste is generated during almond processing. The partnership with Divert is a natural extension of this tradition, taking sustainability efforts to a new level. By converting low-value almond byproducts into renewable energy, they are pushing the envelope on what can be achieved within the agricultural sector.
The processed material will be handled at Divert’s Integrated Diversion & Energy Facility in Turlock, California. This facility is specifically designed to transform organic byproducts into renewable energy, which will then be used to supply homes and businesses in the local community. Additionally, the facility will produce nutrient-rich soil amendments from these byproducts, further supporting agricultural growth in the region. This closed-loop system aims to ensure that nothing goes to waste while simultaneously promoting environmental well-being.
The Broader Implications of Technological Solutions
The theme of sustainability is central to this partnership, underscoring the potential of advanced technological solutions in addressing some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. Ryan Begin, the CEO and co-founder of Divert, emphasizes the broader implications that this partnership can have on the food processing industry as a whole. Given that California is the largest food manufacturer in the United States, the adoption of such technologies can have far-reaching impacts not just within the state but globally.
Begin believes that incorporating this type of technology is crucial for tackling the climate crisis. He notes that Blue Diamond Growers has shown exceptional leadership in their commitment to sustainability, setting an example for the industry at large. By embracing innovative solutions like those offered by Divert, the food processing industry can significantly reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to broader environmental goals.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Blue Diamond Growers’ Sustainability Initiatives
Dan Sonke, who heads the sustainability initiatives at Blue Diamond Growers, further adds that this partnership embodies the company’s long-standing commitment to sustainable practices. Blue Diamond has already established a strong track record of minimizing waste in almond processing, putting them at the forefront of industry efforts to adopt more eco-friendly practices. This partnership is a logical step in advancing their sustainability mission.
Sonke explains that their sustainability efforts are deeply intertwined with their mission to add value not only for their farmer-owners but also for the broader community. By converting almond byproducts into renewable energy and soil amendments, Blue Diamond is setting a benchmark for others in the industry to follow. This initiative serves as a testament to how businesses can successfully integrate sustainability into their operational frameworks while achieving economic and environmental benefits.
The Broader Impact on the Community and Environment
In a groundbreaking step towards a sustainable future, Divert, Inc., a prominent impact technology company, has announced a major partnership with Blue Diamond Growers, the globally recognized almond cooperative. This collaboration is set to revolutionize the almond industry by transforming almond processing byproducts into renewable energy and nutrient-rich soil amendments. By addressing sustainability goals, this initiative aligns with California’s ambitious objective of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2045.
The partnership stands as a stellar example of how innovative technologies can turn waste into valuable resources, benefiting not only the environment but also the community. This initiative showcases how businesses can work together to create a greener future, proving that economic growth and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand. Through this collaboration, Divert, Inc. and Blue Diamond Growers are setting a new standard for industry practices and contributing to broader environmental and community health. This is a pivotal move towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly industry landscape.
