# Eco-Friendly Pet Programs Mars Petcare and Big Idea Ventures Launch a Sustainable Pet Food Program By Kanesa D | Published 2024-09-23 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mars-petcare References: [petfoodprocessing.net](https://www.petfoodprocessing.net/articles/18489-mars-petcare-big-idea-ventures-launch-sustainable-pet-food-program) & [bigideaventures](https://bigideaventures.com/)  [Big Idea Ventures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/oyster-alternative) and [Mars Petcare](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/royal-canin-fellowship-program) have officially launched the Next Generation Pet Food Program, an initiative designed to foster innovation in the sustainable pet food sector. The pilot program is executed in partnership with industry leaders AAK and [Bühler](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bhler-compactmix). It specifically seeks startups that are creating sustainable sources of protein and fat. These innovations are critical for reducing the carbon emissions associated with pet food production. The program encourages diverse approaches, including developing novel ingredients and advanced processing technologies. “At Mars Petcare, our purpose is A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS. This program aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainability and innovation, and we are excited to collaborate with startups that share our vision,” said Elise Malandain, vice president of R&D at Mars Petcare. Image Credit: Big Idea Ventures ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.2/10 - Popularity: 59% | Activity: 67% | Freshness: 29% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Pets](https://www.trendhunter.com/pets) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Sustainable Pet Food:** The shift toward sustainable sources of protein and fat in pet food production signifies a move to reduce carbon emissions in the pet industry. - **Startup Collaboration:** Partnerships with startups for innovation in novel ingredients present opportunities for groundbreaking advancements in pet nutrition. - **Advanced Processing Technologies:** Emerging advanced processing technologies can revolutionize the production methods of pet food, enhancing efficiency and sustainability. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Pet Food Manufacturing:** Sustainable pet food programs are set to transform traditional manufacturing processes by integrating environmentally-friendly practices. - **Agritech:** Innovative agritech solutions within the pet food sector can drive the development of new, eco-friendly protein and fat sources. - **Environmental Technology:** Environmental technology companies can contribute solutions for reducing the carbon footprint of pet food production, fostering a greener industry. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Pet-Welcoming Urban Initiatives](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/better-cities-for-pets.md) - [Vegan Pet Foods](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/marsapet-introduced.md) - [Pet Care Fellowship Programs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/royal-canin-fellowship-program.md) - [AI-Powered Pet Meals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ai-powered-dog-food.md) - [Pet Gear Recycling Schemes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wag-n-wash.md) - [Pet Care Innovation Awards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pet-care-innovation.md) - [Plant-Based Dog Foods](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kind-earth.md) - [Cultivated Canned Pet Foods](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cultivated-canned-pet-food.md) - [Meat-Like Dog Treats](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/meatless-treats-for-dogs.md)