Chiquita Brands International has announced the launch of a new, innovative system in Costa Rica that is designed to convert organic material into electrical and heat energy, as well as produce valuable by-products such as nutrient-rich fertilisers.
The new Biodigester system, which has been unveiled at the US-based group's Mundimar S.A. facility in Guapiles, specifically utilises excess fruit material and processing water from its operations to produce energy that is by its facility and local palm producers and farmers.
'Chiquita’s new Biodigester is at the forefront of our global sustainability efforts,' said senior vice-president for government affairs and corporate responsibility officer Manuel Rodriguez. 'This technology enables us to harness the full energy potential of fruit materials that previously could not be captured.
'It provides a sustainable energy source for our facility, nutrient rich fertiliser for local farmers and filters processing water,' he added. 'It benefits our company, our communities and our planet. The Biodigester is the latest demonstration of Chiquita's global citizenship and our drive to incorporate sustainability into everything we do.'
According to the group, the latest sustainable technologies have been incorporated into the system to ensure that an optimal environmental impact was achieved, something that has been welcomed by Costa Rican president Laura Chinchilla.
'For Costa Rica to continue being the environmental leader it has become, and to strengthen our international position as defendants of the environment, we need to work in alliance with the private sector, especially with companies that guarantee clean energy and environmentally friendly industrial processes,' said president Chinchilla. 'This is why I want to congratulate Chiquita for this new step on the right direction.'
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