Unilever’s ice cream factories to slash carbon emissions with U.S. Department of Energy support

Unilever, the global consumer goods giant, has announced an ambitious initiative to drastically reduce carbon emissions across its Ice Cream Business Group’s four U.S. manufacturing facilities. The project, which aims to cut 14,000 metric tons of carbon emissions annually, has been selected for award negotiations by the U.S. Department of Energy, potentially receiving up to $20.9 million in support. This initiative represents a significant stride towards achieving carbon neutrality for the factories that produce popular ice cream brands such as Ben & Jerry’s, Talenti, Magnum, and Breyers.

At the heart of Unilever’s strategy to diminish its carbon footprint is the replacement of natural gas boilers with electric boilers and the integration of industrial heat pumps that utilize waste heat recovery. This approach not only aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions but also aligns with Unilever’s broader sustainability efforts, including achieving 100% renewable grid electricity globally in 2020 and transitioning all its workplaces to 100% renewable energy.

The proposed upgrades are expected to address 100% of the heat-related process emissions in the company’s Missouri, Tennessee, and Vermont factories, marking a critical advancement in Unilever’s journey towards environmental stewardship.

The U.S. Department of Energy has recognized the potential of Unilever’s project within its Industrial Demonstrations Program (IDP), highlighting its capacity to lower emissions, benefit local communities, and act as a pioneering model for decarbonization efforts across the food and beverage industry.

Sandeep Desai, Chief Product Supply Chain Officer at Unilever Ice Cream, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating, “We are making progress to decarbonize our ice cream business, and these substantial upgrades will mean a major cut in emissions.” He further emphasized the project’s significance as a substantial investment in the future of both the business and the planet, moving Unilever closer to its sustainability goals.

This initiative by Unilever not only underscores the company’s commitment to sustainability but also sets a benchmark for the food and beverage sector to follow. By leveraging innovative technologies and renewable energy sources, Unilever is poised to make a tangible impact on reducing global carbon emissions, contributing to the broader fight against climate change.