Sustainability in the Nut & Dried Fruit Industry
Shaping a sustainable future of the nut and dried fruit industry
Sustainability and Sustainable Development Goals
Sustainability is a broad approach that looks at how things are done, and in the nut and dried fruit industry, it involves everyone from the growers to the processors and manufacturers, and traders. Each segment of the value chain has its own environmental and social impacts on the final product. Factors like farming practices, processing methods, or working conditions play a major role in shaping their overall impact.
In 2022, the INC identified five Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) where the industry can make a significant impact:
Goal 2
End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture.
Goal 6
Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
Goal 12
Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.
Goal 13
Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
Goal 15
Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.
Sustainability Strengths and Challenges
within the Nut & Dried Fruit Sector
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Water Consumption
Farmers have a long history of adapting their practices to local climate conditions, including the management of scarce water resources. Many nuts and dried fruits are water efficient, especially since many originate from dry or semi-arid climates.
Water Consumption
Water efficiency in nut and dried fruit cultivation is challenged by low water availability. Climate change exacerbates water scarcity,and balancing crop needs with sustainable water use remains a complex issue.
Biodiversity
Tree nuts and dried fruits grow on trees, which can enhance biodiversity through deep roots, long-term production, and also allow for the development of other plant species under the canopies or between growing rows, known as cover crops. These trees support insects, pollinators, and prevent soil erosion. Some nuts, like Brazil nuts, pine nuts and walnuts, can be grown in agroforestry systems with minimal human intervention.
Biodiversity
Large land area required for cultivation, which can lead to habitat loss and reduced biodiversity if good practices are not followed. Expanding orchards can displace natural ecosystems and wildlife. Balancing production with conservation efforts is crucial.
Circular Economy
The nut and dried fruit industry generates minimal waste because nearly every part of the crop can be repurposed into valuable by-products. For example, nut shells and hulls are often used as biomass fuel, animal bedding, soil amendments, or even in industrial applications. This efficient use of by-products not only reduces waste but also contributes to a circular economy, where agricultural residues are reintegrated into productive use rather than discarded. In addition, their naturally long shelf life reduces the need for refrigeration and leads to lower food waste.
Circular Economy
In some cases, the cost of separating, storing, transporting, or processing by-products outweighs the market value, leading to missed circular economy opportunities.
Social Impact
The production, processing, and distribution of nuts and dried fruits create numerous jobs, particularly in rural areas where employment opportunities may be limited. This includes jobs in farming, harvesting, processing plants, and logistics.
Social Impact
Particular attention should be given to the risk of unfair or unhealthy working conditions in developing regions. Given the global scale of the industry, it is considered a best practice for operating companies to engage with international labour standards and/or local community projects: helping to give back to the communities that host them.