Experts started by measuring emissions from Tropicana’s energy-intensive processing, packing and distribution operations, yet it turned out that the biggest culprit was the cultivation of Florida oranges, using nitrogen fertilisers that can turn into ‘greenhouse gas’.
The independently audited findings of the survey was that the equivalent of 1.7kg of carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere for every half-gallon (1.89 litres) of Tropicana Pure Premium Orange Juice.
PepsiCo has posted the figure on its website, but has not yet decided whether to follow the example of some European manufacturers, and include it on Tropicana packaging.
The news came a couple of weeks after Pepsi released its fourth annual Sustainable Development Report’ reviewing the company’s progress in addressing “economic, environmental and social challenges”.
Major companies are increasingly keen to establish their credentials as good citizens of the world. Both Pepsi and The Coca-Cola Company are working to reduce their carbon emissions.
Under the Republican government of President Bush, the US has lagged behind Europe in curbing emissions. However, ‘green’ campaigners expect new Democratic President, Barack Obama, to take a tougher stance on environmental issues.
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