DGB goes green
Thursday, 24 June, 2010
DGB (Pty) Ltd
With the wide scale introduction of new lighter weight bottles, DGB has successfully accelerated its eco-progressive ambition to become an environmental leader in the South African wine industry.
DGB has always been mindful of the impact of our wine and spirit operations with a history of sound environmental practices and accreditations. "A full Carbon Footprint audit was the first step in formalizing DGB's greening project," says Ree du Toit, DGB Quality Assurance Manager. "This has provided the foundation for several reduction initiatives to further minimize our footprint across our operations including glass weight reduction, recycling, energy and water usage and waste management."
In close co-operation with the UK's Waste Resource Action Program (WRAP), DGB have moved to lighter weight bottles across the entire wine portfolio. From March, over 10 Million bottles will be moving to lighter weight alternatives with a combined 30% reduction in carbon implications.
This move has been especially welcomed by our international retailers where carbon footprint, sustainability and environmental intelligent packaging have become increasingly evident in consumer purchasing decisions. In Europe and the USA there has been enthusiastic interest in our other alternative packaging options currently under development including innovative enviropacks, pouches and PET bottles.
"Another very exciting step towards our green vision has been our carbon offset program," says Ree. "We are determined to become a carbon neutral organization. We'll be planting 2 hectares of bamboo to sequester sufficient carbon dioxide to fully offset DGB's scope 1 and 2 emissions. This trial plantation is planned for President Zuma's village, Nkandla, in KwaZulu Natal. This is also a great empowerment project where we are assisting the community to draw up a business plan for their commercial benefit of the bamboo.
DGB Chairman Tim Hutchinson added "The greening of DGB is very close to our hearts and extends beyond checks and measures. We are passionate about making a positive impact and encourage eco-awareness as an overall ethos amongst our people and suppliers."
DGB Chairman Tim Hutchinson
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