WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CALIF. – On Earth Day, Dole Food Company released its 2020 Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability report, revealing a new framework called “The Dole Way” and enterprise-wide sustainability goals.  

Dole’s sustainability report outlines an ambitious slate of initiatives under the Dole Way framework focused on tangible action directed toward five key goals: 

  • Dole promises to donate no less than 2,500 tons of fresh fruit and produce by 2025. 

  • Dole declares a social premium for Dole branded bananas and pineapples. This social investment will be directed by company organizations and independent foundations that have operated in Dole’s Latin American production areas and will be invested in the communities according to local needs. 

  • Dole produce is grown in areas where water is becoming increasingly scarce, and Dole is committed to reduce water usage while improving water quality in its operations. 

  • Dole will continue promoting healthy eating and nutrition education, with a focus on youth. 

  • Dole recognizes that climate change is real and that the food and agriculture industries have a role to play in mitigating its effects. Dole will focus on decreasing its carbon footprint by ensuring new vessels include efficiency upgrades and working toward achieving net zero carbon emissions at farm level by 2030. 

  • Dole will ensure all packaging materials used in banana and pineapple businesses are either recyclable or compostable by 2025. 

“Since our founding, Dole has strived to deliver the best of which we are capable—in both our products and how we produce them,” said Johan Linden, chief executive officer of Dole. “The need for healthy food choices has never been more evident than during these past weeks as we adapt under this global pandemic. The journey and dedication to be a responsible citizen of our communities as well as a good steward of our land will continue into our future and Dole will remain steadfast in being honest and transparent about our efforts and our impacts in supplying wholesome food across the globe.” 

The full responsibility and sustainability report can be viewed here.