Across the fresh produce industry, sustainability is not becoming simpler. Expectations, requirements, and priorities continue to shift, and signals are mixed. In this issue of Fresh Picks & Sustainability Tips, we highlight what’s changing, what to focus on, and how to move forward without overbuilding or wasting time, including the latest on EPR, the USDA AMP project, and how building soil health is key to gaining a competitive advantage.

Fresh produce growers face complex new rules for greenhouse gas reporting and extended producer responsibility as state deadlines loom.

In this feature article from The Packer, Measure to Improve outlines new measures to demystify these shifting regulatory requirements.

Dive into regenerative agriculture with the Fresh Takes on Tech Podcast and host Vonnie Estes as she explores the USDA's Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP) program. Measure to Improve CEO, Nikki Cossio, and Director of Agronomic Services, Kyle Cosgrove, discuss the importance of implementing sustainable practices on farms, the challenges growers face, and how AMP bridges the gap between farm practices and market recognition.

Soil health has moved beyond conservation conversation, it's now a core business consideration for growers across the produce industry. From diverse cover crop mixes that have slashed pesticide applications to sheep grazing integration that quadruples nutrient cycling, the takeaway is clear: the operations building integrated soil health systems today aren't just farming more sustainably, they're building a durable competitive advantage.

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.

Fresh insights from our time attending and exhibiting at the SEPC Southern Innovations Conference in September 2025 in Charlotte, NC.

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.

Measure to Improve launches its Quick Start Compliance Solution to help produce companies meet 2025 THESIS & Project Gigaton™ deadlines with confidence. MTI simplifies reporting, offers hands-on support, and ensures credible, on-time submissions—reducing stress while preparing teams for future success.

We’re excited to announce the promotion of two outstanding team members at Measure to Improve. Kieran Ficken McNeice has been promoted to Vice President of Sustainability Strategy. Corinne Carney has been promoted to Director of Sustainability Solutions.

Monthly fresh produce news featuring the ROI of Sustainability, SEPC Southern Innovations Conference, Walnut Sustainability Initiatives, and our Sustainability Simplified Guide.

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.