NEW BEDFORD, Massachusetts — Northern Pelagic Group, LLC (NORPEL), a manufacturer of fresh and frozen land and sea proteins used in pet food, recently released its first-ever sustainability report, detailing the company’s environmental efforts through 2023, including resource efficiency, waste reduction efforts, sustainable sourcing practices, innovation and research efforts, creating a circular economy, and contributing positively to the communities in which it operates.
“As founder and president of NORPEL, I am honored to release our 2023 Sustainability Report,” wrote NORPEL’s Brady Schofield. “Since our founding in 2002, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to creating a better world and better ingredients for pets through sustainable practices. This report highlights our continued efforts and accomplishments in sustainability, especially our pivotal role in the circular economy.”
According to the company, NORPEL has provided protein for more than 550 million pet meal servings worldwide since entering the pet food market in 2014. The company has strengthened its environmental efforts since joining the organization in 2021, and was certified by the Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC) in 2023.
NORPEL’s operations are inherently sustainable, upcycling protein by-products from fish and land animals to create valuable ingredients. 99% of its seafood ingredients come from upcycled materials, which the company says helps ease pressure on natural resources, reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and foster a more sustainable food system.
Additionally, NORPEL adheres to standards set by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), Aquaculture Stewardship Council, Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch, and OceanWise in sourcing seafood by-products. For land-based proteins, the company is a Global Animal Partnership (GAP) Step 2 certified poultry product processor.
In 2023, NORPEL worked with its power company to take proactive measures in its energy usage through voluntary shutdowns. The company conducted 19 voluntary shutdowns, saving 48 hours of energy. This year, it is exploring the possibility of using renewable energy across its operations.
In terms of social initiatives, NORPEL’s achievements in 2023 include passing the Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit (SMETA), demonstrating a commitment to ethical business practices and social responsibility, and the appointment of two new Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) Managers to promote employee health and safety. The company also made significant investments in the local community throughout the year.
Looking ahead to 2024, NORPEL will be focusing on carbon accounting and tracking Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions to reduce emissions in the coming years. The company has also launched a new partnership with FeedBack to reduce waste: NORPEL provides materials that would otherwise be discarded to FeedBack, which processes them into feed and cardboard containers.
“NORPEL’s mission is to transform seafood and meat by-products into high-quality, sustainable protein for pets,” added Schofield. “By upcycling these by-products, we not only contribute to reducing waste, but we also create valuable, nutritious ingredients that support the health and well-being of pets around the world. This aligns with our vision to cultivate a healthier planet and a better future for all.”
Learn more Sustainability Efforts Across the Pet Food and Treats Industry.
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