As of March 31, the California Walnut Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) survey is officially underway. For the California walnut industry, this represents a critical step toward building the kind of data-backed sustainability story that buyers and markets increasingly expect. Learn more about what the LCA means for the industry and why it matters now.

The end of 2025 and the start of 2026 have been busy across the fresh produce industry, with a lot of activity around sustainability reporting, packaging regulations, and new program requirements. As reporting requests become more common and requirements become more defined, having the right structure in place makes a big difference. Read more about two new solutions we’re offering at MTI to support producers navigate increasing EPR and greenhouse gas emissions reporting requirements.

The USDA Climate-Smart Commodities initiative has returned, now restructured as the Advancing Markets for

Producers (AMP) Project. The program supports growers who want to implement conservation practices but need financial support,

technical guidance, and a practical way to document their efforts. Learn what the AMP Project is, why it matters, and what’s next for growers.

At Measure to Improve, we’re pleased to announce two new solutions to further support sustainability in the fresh produce industry around GHG reporting & EPR compliance.

This month’s update looks back on reporting season and lessons learned to make the year ahead smoother, new information on SB 253 and SB 261, and upcoming events across the produce industry.

Sustainability reporting has become an integral part of doing business in the produce industry but for many, it still feels like a rush to the finish line. Every year reporting season reveals both the challenges and the opportunities within sustainability compliance. Now, while the experience is fresh, is the perfect time to assess what worked, what didn’t, and how to make next year’s process more strategic, efficient, and valuable for your business.

California’s new climate disclosure laws, SB 253 and SB 261, are ushering in a new era of corporate accountability, requiring companies to publicly report greenhouse gas emissions and climate-related financial risks. For produce companies, understanding these requirements now is essential to ensure compliance, strengthen sustainability strategies, and lead confidently in a changing regulatory landscape.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws are transforming how produce companies approach packaging by making producers financially and operationally accountable for the materials they put into the market. For fresh produce brands, understanding and acting on these new regulations isn’t just about compliance—it’s an opportunity to lead in sustainability and build long-term resilience. Learn about key components of EPR that your company should be considering now.

This month’s update covers reporting season support with our Quick Start Compliance Solution, fresh insights on consumer demand for sustainability, a new Bonita Ranch case study, takeaways from SEPC Southern Innovations, and upcoming events across the produce industry.

Sustainability isn’t optional in fresh produce — it’s a business advantage. Consumers prefer eco-friendly choices, retailers like Walmart, Kroger, ALDI, and Whole Foods demand it, and regulations are catching up. Discover 5 data-backed reasons why sustainability drives profit, shelf access, and long-term resilience.

Get your copy of the Sustainability Simplified guide, designed exclusively for growers, shippers, and packers in the fresh produce industry.

Sustainability isn’t just about ROI. It’s a smart, long-term business strategy. Learn why fresh produce companies that prioritize resilience, risk reduction, and strategic planning are best positioned to thrive in a changing market.

Discover how the California Walnut Board’s Virtual Learning Series is helping growers adopt sustainable practices. From soil health to carbon strategies, each expert-led session offers practical tools and insights. Measure to Improve supports the series with planning, facilitation, and grower-focused follow-up resources.

Biochar can be a valuable tool to support soil health, reduce water use, and repurpose agricultural byproducts into something of lasting value.

The California Walnut Board and Commission are taking focused, meaningful steps to support the long-term success of California’s walnut industry.

For years, the produce industry has been accused of not telling its story. Historically, we’ve been heads down, focused on the work: planting, growing, harvesting, shipping, processing. We did it all with pride, but quietly.

The California Ag Leadership Foundation’s program (CALP) is a 17-month immersive experience designed to push participants beyond their comfort zones, fostering leadership, advocacy, and community impact.

This year, our focus is on growth and expansion, not only in our business but also in our ability to help the fresh produce industry navigate sustainability challenges with confidence and innovation.

As we step into 2025 at Measure to Improve (MTI), we're excited for the many opportunities for growth, collaboration, and innovation. This year's focus on growth and expansion reflects our commitment to scaling our impact and delivering meaningful sustainability solutions for the fresh produce industry.

As 2024 comes to a close, I’m reminded that sustainability isn’t a buzzword — it’s a way of doing business and is, and will be, integral to any business's long-term success.