Sustainability

Everyone knows that Philly tastes good, but did you know it does good, too? The Philly plant in Lowville, NY is one example of the big changes we’re making to reduce our carbon footprint. We’re proud that almost ¼ of the Lowville’s total energy use now comes from alternative sources.

Lowville, NY Is Going Green. This Philly plant is:

Using Less Energy

By installing anaerobic digesters we’re converting the waste stream from Cream Cheese production (whey) into methane gas. That replaces about 1/3 of the natural gas usage and prevents virtually 100% of whey land-spreading. Annual energy savings are approximately 87,000 mm BTUs, or enough energy to heat around 1,100 average sized households for 1 year.*

Using Less Electricity

In early 2008, the Lowville facility replaced its interior lights with energy efficient T-8 lighting fixtures. This change saves 1,350,068 KWH of usage per year. That’s enough electricity to light 2,164 homes for a year.

Using Less Water

In 2008, the Lowville facility cut its total water use by 9%. And when the digester reaches full capacity, we’re hoping for a 25% reduction.

Recycling More and More

The Lowville Green Team, made up of employee volunteers, was formed in March 2008. With their help, the plant has started an aggressive recycling program. In 2008, we sent 33% less garbage to the landfill. And, believe it or not, The Green Team is just getting started!

*Per the Energy Information Administrations survey, it takes 80 mmBTUs/year to heat an average home in the NE Regions for one year.