The U.S. Sustainability Alliance continues to grow with the addition of the Florida Department of Citrus (FDOC), an executive agency of the Florida government charged with marketing, research, and regulation of the Florida citrus industry. FDOC expands USSA’s membership to 27 associations across farming, fisheries, forestry, and related production and processing sectors with a shared commitment to sustainability.
John Fuller, Director of Global Marketing at the Florida Department of Citrus, says, “Citrus is a significant industry in Florida, contributing $6.9 billion to the state economy. Conserving the grove lands and natural resources that support our industry is a top priority. This ranges from implementing water-efficient irrigation systems to using biodegradable netting for trees to repel pests, combat citrus greening, and reduce the need for pesticides. We’re excited to tell our story and be part of a collective effort to promote the sustainability of American agriculture in the UK and Europe.”
Abby Rinne, sustainability director at the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) and a member of the USSA Management Council adds, “The Florida Department of Citrus is a valuable addition to USSA’s growing membership. We look forward to collaborating with them to highlight citrus growers’ sustainability efforts to key export markets in the UK and Europe.”
About The U.S. Sustainability Alliance (USSA)
The USSA was founded in 2013 and serves as the voice of sustainable food and agricultural production in the United States.
Its membership comprises 27 farming, fishery, and forestry associations and related production and processing sectors, collectively responsible for approximately $8 billion in annual U.S. food and agricultural exports to the U.K. and European Union (2022).
USSA’s mission is to share insights into U.S. production methods with counterparts in Europe and beyond, provide clear data on its members’ sustainability progress, support their commercial interests, and develop export opportunities.