Sustainability
A Heritage of Sustainability
The California walnut industry has spent more than a century caring for the land, the people with whom we work and our local communities. This approach has helped our industry grow and thrive, and to be sustainable for generations to come.
Walnuts have been grown commercially in California since 1867. Our industry comprises of 4,800 walnut growers, many of whom are multigenerational family farmers, and close to 100 handlers who pack and ship walnuts. Together, our commitment to sustainability is deeply rooted in our California heritage, rich farming knowledge and good stewardship practices for the sake of future generations of walnut growers. It is also informed by science and advanced with the help of new technologies and innovations that reduce our impacts on the environment.
As an industry, we are mindful of the health of water, air and soil around us along with the well-being of the people our business touches each day. As such, we are focused on continuous improvements to lessen our impacts while growing the world’s highest quality walnuts.
Our Sustainability Platform Stands on Five Pillars:
Environmental Stewardship
California walnut growers and processors support research and innovation in water quality and conservation, soil health, energy use and air quality. We constantly seek out and incorporate new methods of growing and handling walnuts that minimize waste, enhance productivity, and preserve and protect natural resources.
Sustainable Nutrition & Human Health
We balance our use of natural resources by producing a nutrient-dense whole food that improves human health. We support ongoing research to unlock the full nutritional benefits of California walnuts and their impact on human health.
Food Safety
California walnuts are grown, harvested, and processed under standards and regulations that are mandated by federal and state authorities. Our harvested walnuts often exceed quality standards set by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). We accomplish this with diligent training and ongoing education throughout our industry.
Economic Health
Each year, the growth, handling, sale and consumption of California walnuts creates more than 85,000 full-time equivalent jobs and contributes nearly $6 billion to the states economy.
People & Community
It takes a strong community to grow, harvest and process California walnuts for the world to enjoy. Our community includes growers, handlers, customers, and consumers who are dedicated to sustainability now and for the future. We support education to pass on our knowledge of our sustainable practices to new generations who will carry on our legacy.