6. Environment >
6.2.0 Energy Use & Air Emissions
Everything about Energy & Emissions
The various components of Ben & Jerry’s manufacturing process use three different forms of energy inputs: electricity, fuel oil, and natural gas. We measure and track the energy use at our plants as well as the resulting CO2 emissions.
6.2.1 Energy Statement & Goals
In 2001 we developed an Energy Statement that outlines our commitment to work towards energy conservation and a reduction in our greenhouse gas emissions.
6.2.2 Energy Use
Our Ben & Jerry’s manufacturing process utilizes a variety of energy inputs. Learn more.
6.2.3 Greenhouse Gas Emissions
We track our company’s greenhouse gas emissions closely to measure progress towards our five-year reduction goals.
6.2.4 NativeEnergy & Green Tags
Ben & Jerry’s continues to offset the CO2 emissions from our manufacturing operations through the purchase of green tags from NativeEnergy.
6.2.5 Distribution & Transportation
Distributing our ice cream across Vermont and running shuttles between our plants also creates air emissions. Here’s what we measure.
6.2.6 Global Warming Social Footprint
In 2006, Ben & Jerry’s began a focused effort to answer one very important question about our company’s response to global warming: Exactly how much should we be reducing our greenhouse gas emissions each year? We created a Global Warming Social Footprint to help us answer the question.
Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODS) & Other Emissions
Ben & Jerry’s continuously investigates new ways to reduce and eliminate use of ozone-depleting substances (ODS), especially those used as coolants in freezer “dip cases” in our Scoop Shops. New dip cases purchased for all Scoop Shops use R404a, a zero ozone-depleting refrigerant as well as an extremely low GWP (Global Warming Potential) material.
The Company uses anhydrous ammonia and propylene glycol freezing systems in the manufacturing plants. These systems contain no CFCs or other ozone-depleting chemicals and have no global warming impacts.