Frito-Lay,the multi-billion-dollar snack food giant,requires vast amounts of water, electricity,natural gas and fuel to produce its 41 well-known brands. In keeping with growing environmental concerns,Frito-Lay has initiated ambitious plans to produce environmentally friendly snacks. but even environmentally friendly snacks require resources.Recognizing the environmental impact,Recognizing the environmental impact,the firm is and aggressive "green manufacturer,"with major initiatives in resource reduction and sustainability. For instance,the company's energy management program includes a variety of elements designed to engage employees in reducing energy consumption. these elements include scorecards and customized action plans that empower employees and recognize their achievements.
Frito-Lay has also built over 50 acres of solar concentrator behind its Modesto,California,plant to generate solar power. The solar power is being converted into heat and used to cook Sun Chips. A biomass boiler,which will burn agricultural waste,is also planned to provide additional renewable fuel.
Frito-Lay is installing high-tech filters that recycle most of the water used to rinse and wash potatoes. It also recycles corn byproducts to make Doritos and other snacks; starch is reclaimed and sold,primarily as animal feed,and leftover sludge is burned to create methane gas to run the plant boiler.