Fair Cape Dairies, a prominent dairy producer, has clinched the coveted Sustainability Award at the Shoprite Group’s 2023 Supplier of the Year Awards. Recognised for their dedication to sustainable practices, the accolade was bestowed at a ceremony hosted at Blaauwklippen Estate in Stellenbosch over the weekend.
The award spotlights Fair Cape Dairies’ comprehensive sustainability programme, including an array of initiatives integrated into the fabric of the company’s operations. Notable efforts span soil conservation, reductions in water and energy consumption, waste minimisation, and advancements in animal welfare.
Particularly noteworthy is the substantial investment in renewable energy, with the company’s solar farm now powering all milk processing activities during daylight hours.
Colin Ohlhoff, environmental officer of Fair Cape Dairies, expressed gratitude, stating, “We are honoured to receive this award from the Shoprite Group. This underlines our commitment to our regenerative farming programme and our desire to do as much as we possibly can for the environment.”
The core ethos of sustainability resonates deeply within the dairies’ business framework, and their dedication to enhancing environmental and social performance remains unwavering. The positive ripple effect of their sustainability initiatives extends beyond the company’s walls, making a tangible impact on both the environment and the local community.
Water conservation efforts alone have resulted in saving a million litres annually, while waste reduction programmes prioritise circularity through waste recovery and landfill diversion. Additionally, packaging modifications align with recycling endeavours, aiding downstream recyclers.
Sanjeev Raghubir, head of sustainability and CSI at the Shoprite Group, praised Fair Cape Dairies as a trailblazer in sustainability strategy and execution. “The company’s commitment to environmentally sustainable practices is an inspiration to others, and we applaud them,” Raghubir commented.
The prestigious Sustainability Award serves as a testament to Fair Cape Dairies’ dedication to their motto, “Do the right thing.” This ethos is said to shape their farming practices and milk processing operations, ensuring the highest standards of positive outputs from the company.
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