Happenings on the Ranch

Many of us recognize the brand SunChips® as a healthy snack that has made a concerted effort to promote not only good health, but good stewardship of the land.  SunChips has long touted their chip not only as a healthy, whole grain snack but one that is environmentally conscious.  When Planet Green and Discovery Network presented their series about the rebuilding of Greensburg, KS, SunChips donated $1 million to help build a solar-powered “Business Incubator” designed to help small businesses get back up and running there.  SunChips also advertises that their production facility in Modesto, CA is operated partially on solar power.  Granted, their Modesto plant is one of eight plants that make SunChips but, as the company states, it’s a step in the right direction.

Now the company is taking another step forward.  Beginning Earth Day 2010, SunChips will use fully compostable packaging.  One-third of their current bags are already made from renewable, plant-based materials.  The new bags are designed to fully compost within 14 weeks when placed in a hot, active compost bin or pile.  A pretty fitting way to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Earth Day.

This just goes to show that large corporations can make a difference, whether they admit it or not.  So many of them make excuses for their practices by saying it can’t be done or is too costly to do in an environmentally friendly way.  These companies should take a page from SunChips’ book and rethink the way they do business.  Our society is too “throw away” as it is.  Individuals are thinking more and more about conserving and recycling.  Why should corporations be any different?

Until next time.  ~Karin