Almot Maqolo, Staff Writer 
DAIRIBORD Holdings (Dairibord) says it invested in a second Tetrapak carton filling machine that is largely biodegradable, as the firm commits to migrate to recyclable carton lids.
The dairy processor said it has also established partnerships with stakeholders such as packaging suppliers, waste collectors and recyclers to ensure that its management process is successful. Dairibord said by investing in programmes that minimise and conserve natural resources, it is committed to reducing its negative impact on the environment and promoting sustainable practices in the packaging industry.
“Our goal as a company is to increase the use of recyclable packaging materials while preventing or reducing the generation of waste and pollution from our operations. We assess the quantity of waste generated, recycled and disposed of to measure our progress,” Dairibord said in its annual report.
Relating to energy consumption, Dairibord said it has invested in an efficient ammonia plant with automatic load controls to reduce energy usage. The dairy processor said it plans to invest in solar power plants for its Chitungwiza and Chipinge factories. Dairibord said in the last five years its diesel consumption has been averaging 1,88 million litres per year to avoid uninterrupted operations.
“We have increased diesel consumption for the distribution vehicles compared to the previous year owing to increased volumes and there has been higher dependence on generator power at the Chipinge factory due to inconsistent supply of ZESA power,” Dairibord said.
The highest diesel consumption was recorded in 2020, at 2,38 million litres, followed by 2,23 million litres in 2019.
Fuel consumption started dropping in 2021, which can be attributed to the acquisition of fuel-efficient generators and trucks by the company.
However, the power situation has improved with increased supply from Hwange, the country’s largest coal-fired station. Power availability is poised to lower operational costs for businesses.
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