Namibia Breweries accelerate sustainable practices to achieve zero emissions by 2030

WINDHOEK, Feb. 16– Namibia Breweries Limited (NBL) on Tuesday said it is aiming to achieve zero emissions across its operations by 2030, a decade earlier than the Paris Agreement’s climate target, through increased renewable energy use as well as improved energy efficiency, and implementation of innovative low-carbon technologies and nature-based solutions. NBL Managing Director Peter Simons in a statement expressed the company’s commitment to accelerating sustainability efforts in the decade ahead, emphasizing that environmental stewardship and social responsibility are integral to the company’s business ethos and brewing heritage. “Environmental stewardship and social responsibility are integral to our business and brewing heritage. While our early sustainability efforts put us on the map, our work has only just begun. We are committed to accelerating our Brew a Better World efforts in the decade ahead to realize our vision for a truly sustainable future.” he said. The company’s journey towards sustainability dates back decades, with pioneering projects laying the groundwork for its heightened ambitions. Notably, NBL installed Africa’s first industrial-scale biomass boiler, reducing carbon emissions by more than 63,000 metric tons since 2016. This innovative boiler currently fulfills 85 percent of the brewery’s thermal energy requirements, showcasing NBL’s successful transition towards renewable energy sources. Accordingly, NBL has spearheaded circular solutions like waste recycling and water treatment that benefit both its operations and the environment, reinforcing its ambition to achieve net zero emissions while supporting healthy local ecosystems. “NBL has strategically installed over 75 energy meters, enabling real-time tracking and data-driven targeting of electricity consumption. This initiative has not only driven efficiency improvements across operations but has also laid the groundwork for further advancements. The commissioning of two rooftop solar plants, in 2013 and 2023, contributes a noteworthy 22 percent to NBL’s total electricity needs,” the company said. NBL has also implemented an integrated management system that embraces initiatives like increased use of recyclable packaging as well as the innovative repurposing of spent yeast which has resulted in a significant reduction in solid waste sent to landfills.Xinhua