Could Primient’s Plant-Based Strategy Reshape Manufacturing?
In recent years, the World Economic Forum (WEF) has underscored the potential positive impact of shifting to plant-based diets, noting that such a transition could safeguard numerous wildlife species by reducing the demand for intense, resource-heavy agricultural practices.
If this shift accelerates, it presents a significant opportunity for manufacturers to innovate using plant-based raw materials.
Primient's manufacturing journey towards sustainability
Primient stands at the forefront of producing renewable, plant-based ingredients vital for both the food and industrial sectors.
Established in 1906 by A.E. Staley, Primient is devoted to advancing plant-based solutions using cutting-edge technology and scientific methodologies.
In this field, the company focuses on four core areas: safety, excellence, integrity and growth.
Safety involves optimising production processes to ensure not only quality but also environmental protection.
Excellence extends beyond product development to encompass every aspect of the company's operations, driving both innovation and efficiency.
Integrity serves as the foundational principle guiding internal and external interactions, while growth targets the development of the company’s human resources and the expansion of its technological capabilities.
Laura Kowalski, Head of Global Sustainability and Marketing at Primient, says: “This year, we focused on ensuring our programmes are making an impact and decreasing risk within our value chain
“I am proud of the difference we’re making and believe we will continue to demonstrate meaningful change for years to come.
“Despite a dynamic global environment, Primient’s growth strategy remains rooted in sustainability.
“We are honoured and prepared to continue helping our customers meet their sustainability ambitions and drive shared value for years to come.”
Emission reduction and regenerative practices
Primient has achieved a notable 30% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions since 2019, with an aim to align with the 1.5°C science-based target by 2030.
This reflects a significant overhaul of manufacturing processes towards greener practices.
Furthermore, in collaboration with Truterra since 2018, Primient has focused on regenerative practices that enhance sustainability in manufacturing through educational outreach and process improvements.
The company's intervention programme incentivises farmers, encouraging the adoption of no-till and cover crop planting methods.
This programme has yielded considerable results, including an 8,600-tonne reduction in carbon emissions by 2024, highlighting the programme's effectiveness and its impact on manufacturing processes.
Jim Stutelberg, CEO, Primient says “Our sustainability record is industry leading. We feel confident that our focus areas are the right ones to help drive excellence within our plants and in our supply chain.
“We are making progress toward our science based targets and continuing to invest in our agricultural footprint. Many of our customers have bold sustainability ambitions and we are well positioned to help them achieve their goals.”
Strategic partnerships and technological innovation
Primient's strategy envisions a deforestation-free supply chain by 2050, illustrating its proactive approach to sustainable manufacturing.
A key component of this strategy is its partnership with Sustainea Bioglycols, focused on producing bio-based monoethylene glycol (bio-MEG) from corn syrup feedstock.
As an alternative to petroleum-based chemicals, bio-MEG significantly reduces the carbon footprint of manufacturing products such as beverage bottles, food containers, apparel and footwear.
The strategic location of both companies enables efficient production and eliminates logistical inefficiencies in product transportation, showcasing Primient’s commitment to optimising manufacturing processes.
Primient leverages natural gas-powered combined heat and power units in its corn wet mills, enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability throughout its manufacturing operations.
Gustavo Sergi, CEO at Sustainea Bioglycols, says: “With sustainability at the core of our go-to-market strategy, we feel confident that Primient is the right partner to provide a low-carbon dextrose for our bio-MEG manufacturing process.
“Primient has proven to be collaborative, reliable and data-driven, all assets that will position Sustainea Bioglycols to make an impact in the market both locally and globally.”
Primient's approach not only sets benchmarks in sustainable manufacturing but also aligns with industry-wide goals of reducing environmental impacts, evidencing the critical role manufacturers play in crafting a more sustainable future.