“It’s their key message,” he declared, explaining that sustainability refers to the long-term prosperity of businesses in harmony with ecological and social systems. The United Nations defines sustainable development as meeting the triple bottom line of social equity (people), environmental quality (planet), and economic prosperity. Bestwick said when all three overlap, a company is sustainable. West Coast Reduction is focusing on sustainability, primarily as it affects the environment. Researchers estimate there are over 500 sustainability programs worldwide and although certification can be expensive, Bestwick emphasized it is worthwhile, especially for the rendering industry, which already has what it takes to be sustainable. Renderers provide health and safety of the food supply for people, divert waste from landfills and reduce carbon dioxide for a healthy planet, and create jobs and add value to agriculture for prosperity. There is increasing pressure from consumers, raw material suppliers, and finished product customers for information on renderers’ sustainability practices. Bestwick suggested the rendering industry could develop new standards in conjunction with allied industry associations and independent groups, such as the Sustainable Food Alliance of British Columbia or Canadian Meat Council, or meet existing standards like ISO 1400 or UL 880. “Sustainability is important and rendering companies need to beef up their message on websites and in promotion,” he stated. “Sustainability certification could be a competitive advantage.” Gary Conover, Western United Dairymen, painted a dismal picture of the dairy industry in California over the past five years, which is down to 1,500 dairies from a high of 2,000 in 2009. On the other hand, 1.7 million cows are still being milked in the state, accounting for 22 percent of the nation’s production. However, the future is still uncertain as California struggles through a drought and increasing environmental regulations. Dr. David Meeker, NRA Scientific Services, covered FDA’s proposed rule under FSMA in more detail, including the thought that most renderers will fall under the “small business” category (less than 500 employees) and won’t have Chart 1. Greenhouse gas reduction for different biomass-based diesel pathways to comply with the new rule for two years after finalization. However, pet food companies will have to comply within one year and may require feed ingredient suppliers to meet the same deadline. Meeker noted that FDA is asking for a lot of confidential company information, which concerns NRA. The proposed animal food rule basically follows the human food rule and includes many terms not appropriate for animal feed, such as “sanitize” versus “clean,” and “quality,” which would not apply to raw materials collected by renderers. However, many parts of the proposed rule are similar to the Northern American Rendering Industry Code of Practice. “But the devil is in the details,” Meeker commented. “The proposed rule is too prescriptive; it’s not distinguishable between animal feed and human food.” NRA is in a coalition with its allies, such as AFIA, the National Grain and Feed Association, Pet Food Institute, and Grocery Manufacturers Association, which are all in agreement with the errors made Continued on page 18 A group of lobbyists lightheartedly discuss California’s regulatory environment. From left, Chris Zanobini, California Grain and Feed Association (CGFA); Dennis Albiani, California Advocates; Gary Conover, Western United Dairymen; and Tad Bell, CGFA. NRA Chairman Ross Hamilton, Darling International, discusses a devastating virus that has hit the pork industry. www.rendermagazine.com Render April 2014 17
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