New Roots’ contribution to the SDGs

New Roots is all about sustainability, and we're proud to say that it's at the heart of everything we do, from the raw materials we source to how we make our products and run our facilities. We're also playing our part in the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

What are the Sustainable Development Goals?

Another global initiative? You bet. But hear us out. In 2015, the United Nations unveiled the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – a blueprint for a world free of poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation. It’s a big, bold goal, we know, but it’s one we’re really passionate about. These 17 goals are all interconnected and provide a roadmap to a more just, equitable and sustainable future for all. So before you write it off as just another proposal, think about what could happen if we make it happen, together.

How does New Roots contribute to the SDGs?

Companies like New Roots have a big part to play in achieving these goals. With our ability to innovate, scale, and invest, we’re in a position to help with the progress toward these ambitious goals. Here’s how we’re contributing to the SDGs:

SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

We’re passionate about sustainable food consumption and production practices that don’t negatively impact the environment. For example, our Soft White is a great choice for your taste buds and the planet. It emits 60% less CO2 and uses 40% less water than Camembert made from Swiss cow’s milk. Plus, our production facility is completely fossil-free, which helps us to keep our environmental footprint as small as possible. We also encourage the responsible use of resources: We actively reduce food waste and practice sustainable sourcing (e.g., fair trade, organic). We also believe that responsible consumption means opposing a system based on the mass exploitation and slaughter of other species. And we’re excited to be part of the change! We’re on a mission to create a fairer food system for humans and animals alike. We also donate 1% of our sales to Swiss animal sanctuaries and to help farmers switch from animal-based to plant-based agriculture. We’re also teaming up with local farmers to build an entirely Swiss supply chain. Looking ahead, we’re committed to helping farmers transition away from dairy production. We believe that true sustainability requires a change in the way things are done. By focusing on plant-based alternatives, local sourcing, and responsible production practices, we’re aiming to transform the entire dairy supply chain for a more sustainable future.

SDG 13: Climate Action

Dairy production contributes to climate change in two main ways: through enteric fermentation (which produces methane), and through deforestation. Trees are a key part of the solution to climate change. They absorb CO2 and produce oxygen. Deforestation for pasture and “feed” production gets in the way of this process and also releases the carbon dioxide stored in the trees, which contributes to climate change. Deforestation also contributes to the loss of habitat and biodiversity, which is another reason we need to take action! By choosing nuts and legumes, we’re relying on crops that generally have a smaller environmental footprint, which helps to mitigate climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. And our fossil fuel-free facility also helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

Our products are fermented and organic, with no artificial flavors or additives. They’re a cholesterol-free and potentially healthy alternative to dairy that can help our customers live and feel better. Our products are a great choice for many people, including those looking to manage cholesterol, cut back on animal products, or ease symptoms of lactose intolerance.

SDG 2: Zero Hunger

Our products are a source of protein, which is essential for a healthy and balanced diet. Plus, we can grow our products on less land than dairy products. That’s because we don’t need land to raise animals and grow food for them. This frees up resources for other food production that could help increase food security and reduce hunger in a more sustainable way than dairy production. Plus, compared to 1 kg of Camembert made from Swiss cow’s milk, our Soft White uses 40% less water. And there’s more: Our production process also eliminates the water needed to raise the cows and grow their food. We’re thrilled to be promoting sustainable food production in a water-stressed world.

SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

Animal agriculture produces a lot of manure, which can contain harmful substances like nitrates, phosphates, and even antibiotic-resistant bacteria. These pollutants can make their way into soil and groundwater, which can then affect the quality of drinking water and potentially harm human health. By making only organic and plant-based products, we don’t contribute to these environmental pollutants and with that we can make a difference in protecting our precious ecosystems and public health. Our Soft White is an amazingly water-efficient cheese: It uses 40% less water than Camembert made from Swiss cow’s milk. In this way, we support sustainable and efficient water management.

SDG 15: Life on Land

The more animal products we consume, the fewer people we can feed because there are only so many resources and arable land in the world. Raising “farm animals” is inefficient: 83% of agricultural land is used to grow or pasture food for them, but they produce only 18% of calories and 37% of protein. This is a golden opportunity to rethink how we produce food! We can use these resources more efficiently for direct human consumption instead of processing them through animals. Our plant-based dairy alternatives use less land than dairy products and don’t involve deforestation. By choosing plant-based proteins such as nuts and legumes, we can help conserve land, forests, and the vital biodiversity they support. Forests are key to combating climate change. They store carbon, and by avoiding the deforestation associated with cow’s milk production, our products contribute directly to this effort. We also use organic ingredients and sustainable farming practices that help protect biodiversity and promote healthy ecosystems on land.

Be Part of the Change

We’re on a mission to make a positive impact and drive meaningful change! We’re aligning our business operations with the SDGs to make a difference. By choosing our products, you can help create a more sustainable and ethical food system. So, what are you waiting for? Give them a try! Not only will your taste buds be delighted, but you’ll also be doing your part to help the planet.