Pepsico’s Pep+ brings sustainability to every level of organization
Author: Charlotte Atchley
Pepsico, Purchase, NY, has heard from consumers and is doing its part to take sustainability practices to the next level. Through its Pep+ (Pepsico Positive) program, the company is hoping to go beyond simply sustainable business practices by making sustainability a core part of every aspect of Pepsico’s operations. “We have been no stranger to sustainability. Back in 2006 we stad with sustainability practices, and of course we’ve continued to do so,” said Rachael Lawrence, senior director of sustainability for Pepsico. “Pep+ is an end-to-end transformation of our sustainability systems.” At SNAC International’s trade show SNAXPO23, held in Orlando, Fla., March 19-21, Ms. Lawrence detailed the Pep+ program, launched in 2021, and the progress the company has made. Pep+ aims to bring sustainability to every point of Pepsico’s business, from agriculture and ingredients supporting Pepsico’s products to manufacturing to consumer-facing finished products. Pep+ drives progress toward Pepsico’s sustainability goals through three key pillars that represent these points in the value chain: positive agriculture, positive value chain and positive choices. Positive Agriculture represents Pepsico’s efforts to spread regenerative agriculture practices. Pepsico has the opportunity to improve the Earth through its 7 million-acre agricultural footprint and improving the livelihoods of the more than 250,000 people within its agricultural supply chain. In addition to regenerative agriculture, Pepsico also looks to supplier partners for sustainably sourced ingredients. The Positive Value Chain is Pepsico’s approach to building a circular, inclusive economy. It encompasses goals such as achieving net-zero emissions by 2040, becoming net water positive by 2030, introducing more sustainable packaging and providing meaningful jobs. Through its Positive Choices pillars, Pepsico develops food and beverage products that are better for both people and planet.