Namibia Breweries Limited (NBL) has announced plans to reach zero emissions across its operations by 2030 as part of its sustainable manufacturing plans.
The brewer’s plans include transitioning to 100% renewable electricity across operations by 2030, and reducing carbon emissions by 30% across its value chain through partnerships with suppliers by 2030.
NBL also plans to eliminate waste sent to landfills from production facilities by 2025 and balance 100% of water use in water-stressed areas through community watershed projects.
The brewer said the targets will be achieved through increased renewable energy usage, enhanced energy efficiency, emission reduction across NBL’s value chain, and the implementation of innovative low-carbon technologies, and nature-based solutions.
“Environmental stewardship and social responsibility are integral to our business and brewing heritage,†NBL Managing Director, Peter Simons said.
“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 realise our vision for a truly sustainable future.
“Climate change is one of the biggest threats facing our world today, and businesses must step up their efforts to reduce emissions. While we have made solid progress, our work has only just begun,†he added.
As part of its sustainability efforts, NBL installed Africa’s first industrial-scale biomass boiler, reducing carbon emissions by over 63,000 tonnes since 2016.
This state-of-the-art boiler currently fulfils an impressive 85% of the brewery’s thermal energy requirements, showcasing NBL’s success in transitioning towards renewable thermal energy sources to reduce its carbon footprint.
“NBL has spearheaded circular solutions like waste recycling and water treatment that benefit both our operations and the environment. These efforts reinforce our ambition to reach net zero emissions while supporting healthy local ecosystems,†NBL Engineering Manager, Bernd Esslinger said.
In pursuit of enhanced energy efficiency, NBL has also strategically installed over 75 energy meters, enabling real-time tracking and data-driven targeting of electricity consumption and commissioned two rooftop solar plants, in 2013 and 2023, which contribute 22% to NBL’s total electricity needs.
“Our journey toward sustainability includes continuous innovation and optimisation. We are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the pursuit of a greener and more sustainable future,†Esslinger said.
NBL has exhibited foresight on the water sustainability front by drilling five onsite boreholes and constructing a borehole water treatment plant, providing up to 80% of its water supply during drought periods. Its local water sourcing strategy has proven essential for NBL to ensure sustainable water availability amidst changing climate conditions.
“NBL is committed to leading the way in sustainable practices, proving that businesses can drive positive change for our planet and communities,†NBL Corporate Affairs Manager, Surihe Gaomas-Guchu said.
