Sustainability, Up Close

How can sustainability be brought down to earth, to concepts and practices that operators can actually implement and use to make a difference? Truitt Brothers addressed this concern at the 2010 Northwest Sustainability Discovery Tour, bringing in a variety of field experts and food professionals to share their findings and experiences, and provide tangible practices for attendees to consider.

Held throughout Oregon's scenic Willamette Valley, the event included two and a half days of expert speakers presenting current trends, research, case studies, farm tours and more. Panelists shared their experiences of practicing sustainability within their own foodservice operations, while roundtables addressed topics such as life cycle assessments, sustainable sourcing, and food waste management.

Afternoon field trips provided close up views of farmers and processors implementing sustainable practices on the job. Stops included a visit to a Truitt Bros. farm where attendees viewed responsible green bean farming and harvesting. There was also a Stahlbush Island Farms tour that featured the first of its kind biogas plant, which produces enough electricity from fruit and vegetable byproduct to power 1100 homes. For info about next year's Discovery Tour, contact Truitt at www.truittbros.com.