Sustainability is ingrained in our culture and guides us in our decision making. This includes how we approach our biorefinery operations to conserve energy and water, support our communities and make products that are truly sustainable and reduce our carbon footprint. We’re dedicated to being proactive in how we identify areas to improve and positively impact our employees, customers and the environment.
Air Quality
At least 95% of key pollutant emissions captured.
Water Management
Zero process contact water discharge at 12 of 13 biorefineries.
Emissions
43% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions per gallon of biofuel compared to a gallon of traditional gasoline. (USDA)
Feedstock Impacts
100% sourced locally from American farmers.
Legal & Regulatory
Strong history of compliance.
Safety
Proven track record of safety and success.
10 Billion
gallons of low-carbon biofuel produced
34.3 MMT
of reduced CO2 emission
43%
lower GHG profile than gasoline
50%
or greater future reduction in GHG emissions
In 2019 Green Plains began implementing Project 24, an initiative focused on improving efficiencies and reducing operating costs to 24 cents per gallon at each of our locations. This effort improves our carbon footprint through a reduction in natural gas, electricity and water usage. Using a phased approach, we are implementing these upgrades across our biorefinery platform.
Our strategy revolves around the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) and the UN Sustainable Development Goals:
- The SASB framework guides our Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) integration process to identify risks and opportunities and determine how these factors contribute to sustainable long-term shareholder value.
- The UN Sustainable Development Goals allow Green Plains to better understand and align our business impact on stakeholders, communities, the environment and the world.
Global Impact
UN Sustainable Development Goals
Directly support over 800 jobs across the U.S.
Meet growing global demand for plant-based protein in a sustainable way.
Engage in robust efforts to clean water and efficiently manage water resources across 12 biorefineries.
Play a significant role in agricultural economic activity in the U.S. Midwest, including purchasing corn locally and directly from American farmers.
Drive innovative biorefinery process and product development.
Meet the world's growing food and dietary protein demands with Ultra-High Protein and plant-based feeds.
Reduce particulate matter emissions and carbon footprint of liquid fuel vehicles.
Develop innovative aquaculture diets to reduce overfishing of our oceans.
Use designated agricultural land in the U.S. and products derived from it, halting deforestation elsewhere while providing Ultra-High Protein, plant-based feeds.
Since our founding, Green Plains has been committed to the people and communities we serve. We understand each community where we operate is directly impacted by our actions, and believe it’s our responsibility to be an excellent corporate citizen through sponsorships, charitable donations and volunteerism.
Some examples of the many ways we give back is by partnering with programs that offer agricultural education like FFA and 4-H. We are proud to support organizations whose mission is to help young students strengthen their passion for agriculture through experiences that provide them with the tools to achieve real-world success. We frequently offer our time and provide the resources necessary to help prepare the next generation of agriculturalists for success.
Green Plains does not limit our corporate giving to agriculture. Our charitable arm extends to holding donor drives, collecting clothing, food and toiletry items for those in need as well as sponsoring programs that support food banks.
Another way Green Plains gives back is through our contributions to the American Lung Association, a leading non-profit advocating for healthy lungs and healthy air. As a biofuels producer, we appreciate the fuel we produce is critical in reducing particulate matter and tailpipe emissions which improves the air we all breathe.
Green Plains is a global leader in leveraging innovative technologies to make essential ingredients the world needs.
Learn more about Green Plains