HORSHAM, PA — Grupo Bimbo and Bimbo Bakeries USA (BBU) received the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Energy Star certification for 18 of their facilities. They have the landmark record for the highest number of certifications in the baking industry and in any industrial sector within the US.
These certifications signify that their industrial plants perform in the top 25% for energy efficiency among similar facilities nationwide and hit the strict energy efficiency levels set by the EPA. This year is the seventh consecutive award for several of these facilities and highlights a legacy of sustainability leadership.
“Sustainability is core to Bimbo Bakeries USA’s Purpose of Nourishing a Better World and we have an obligation to preserve our planet for future generations,” said Ramon Rivera, senior VP of operations for BBU. “We’re incredibly proud of our longstanding relationship with the EPA and truly appreciate receiving ongoing recognition from them for our growing number of efficient ENERGY STAR facilities.”
The facilities that received the award are:
In addition to the certification, the Atlanta, GA, and Kent, WA, bakeries achieved the Energy Star Challenge for Industry by exceeding the goal to reduce their energy intensity by 10% within five years. The Atlanta facility lowered its energy intensity by 11% and the Kent bakery by 18% within three years.
“Improving the energy efficiency of our nation’s buildings is critical to protecting our environment,” said Cindy Jacobs, chief of the Energy Star commercial and industrial branch. “From the boiler room to the board room, organizations are leading the way by making their operations more efficient and earning EPA’s ENERGY STAR certification.”
The certification reinforces Grupo Bimbo’s net carbon zero commitment and the company’s desire to nourish a better world. It also puts BBU within the top 25% of commercial bakeries in the nation as far as energy performance. BBU improved its energy performance by managing energy strategically across the entire organization and making cost-effective plant improvements.
