A sizable group representing everything from strawberries to potatoes to apples to spinach engaged in heart-felt discussions last week at the United Fresh Produce Association’s inaugural Sustainability Conference in Las Vegas. There were those working hard to become more sustainable, those who had been engaged in significant programs for decades, and even those who worried that all this talk of sustainability might just be a marketing trend.

Roger Pepperl of Stemilt Growers from Wenatchee, Washington, shared a compelling story about how their company has reduced waste, saved energy and supported community. Somewhat amazingly, given all the “green” hype one hears today, Stemilt’s program launched in 1989 and has been gaining steam ever since. Pepperl said such efforts have become deeply embedded in the company’s culture.

Bob Meek of Wada Farms Marketing Group presented similar ideas, but from slightly different markets. The evidence to support their program can be found in the Wada Farms Sustainability Report. They, too, have made sustainability part of their company’s culture.

It’s clear that both of these companies had visionary leaders who founded their programs years ago. They did so, in part, because they believed it was the right thing to do. As so often happens, the right thing has proved to be the smart thing. For both Stemilt and Wada, efficiencies have resulted in economic benefits. Now, in this age where consumers are starting to take notice of a company’s policies and actions regarding sustainability, each has a great story to tell, one backed by years and years of measurable evidence.