Our packaging minimization goal was established in fiscal year 2012, and we also monitor progress toward goals designed to support animal care, sodium reduction, innovation, employee safety, inclusion and diversity, and communities. Many of our goals support the Sustainable Development Goals to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all.
In 2018, we reduced over 8,900 metric tons of GHG emissions from our manufacturing operations — 67 percent of our goal when combined with our previous progress.
In 2018, we reduced energy use by more than 128,000 MMBtu and surpassed our nonrenewable energy use reduction goal.
After exceeding our goal to reduce water use in 2016, we implemented additional projects that reduced water use by over 61 million gallons in 2018.
After surpassing our goal in 2014, we continue to achieve additional reductions. In 2018, we implemented projects that reduced the amount of solid waste sent to landfills by 72 tons.
In 2018, we reduced product packaging by 2.5 million pounds* — 99 percent of our goal when combined with our previous progress.
In 2018, more than 2,000 audits were conducted to ensure the accountability of our standards.
At the end of 2018, over 14% of our sales came from innovative new items.
We have nine employee resource groups in place to support our efforts.
*Savings are estimated annualized savings based on a full year of volume