Nestlé’s South African Skimmelkrans dairy farm and Mossel Bay factory are leading the way in sustainable dairy production. With innovative practices in low-carbon farming, water recovery, and eco-friendly packaging, these facilities exemplify Nestlé’s commitment to achieving waste-free operations and net-zero emissions by 2050.
Nestlé, the Swiss multinational food and drink processing giant, is making strides towards its ambitious global sustainability targets with two key operations in South Africa: the Skimmelkrans dairy farm and the Mossel Bay dairy factory. These facilities exemplify Nestlé’s commitment to achieving waste-free operations and net-zero emissions by 2050. Their ongoing sustainability initiatives were showcased during a site visit on June 20, aligning with the group’s World Milk Day celebrations.
Skimmelkrans Dairy Farm: A Model of Low-Carbon Dairy Farming
Introduction
The Skimmelkrans dairy farm, located in George, Western Cape, stands as a testament to Nestlé’s efforts in sustainable dairy farming. As the group’s pilot project for low-carbon emissions, Skimmelkrans has been instrumental in advancing Nestlé’s goal of net-zero emissions. The farm’s initiatives are a key part of Nestlé’s strategy to halve emissions by 2030.
Sustainability Practices
Skimmelkrans integrates several innovative practices to reduce its environmental footprint:
- Advanced Technology: The farm employs technology for monitoring cow health, optimizing feed, and ensuring efficient milk production. Cows are milked using a rotating feeder and milking system that minimizes human contact, reducing contamination risk.
- Regenerative Agriculture: Initiatives such as soil carbon sequestration, water conservation, and manure processing help in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Soil is analyzed yearly to maintain its health, and manure is processed into compost and irrigation for pastures, reducing methane emissions.
- Feed Optimization: The farm is experimenting with feed components to lower methane emissions, working with academic partners to refine these practices.
- Renewable Energy: Skimmelkrans utilizes solar energy and an ice bank system to cool milk with minimal fossil fuel use. Redesigned tankers and fuel-efficient driving practices further reduce the carbon footprint associated with milk transportation.
- Biodiversity: The farm supports local biodiversity with beehives and owl houses, enhancing the ecosystem around the farm.
Economic Impact
Skimmelkrans supports approximately 36 direct employees and impacts around 360 people indirectly. Nestlé’s procurement from over 124 farms in South Africa demonstrates the extensive reach and influence of these sustainability practices.
Mossel Bay Dairy Factory: Sustainable Processing
Introduction
The Mossel Bay dairy factory processes milk from Skimmelkrans and other farms, turning it into various Nestlé products, including milk powders and liquid milk. Located in a water-stressed region, the factory is a model of water conservation and sustainable manufacturing.
Sustainability Practices
- Water Recovery System: The factory recycles evaporated water from milk processing, significantly reducing municipal water usage. A wastewater treatment plant also repurposes process water for irrigation and truck washing.
- Eco-Friendly Packaging: Nestlé is transitioning to locally-manufactured, recyclable packaging solutions, aiming for 100% recyclability of its sachets by the end of the year.
- Digital Monitoring and AI: The factory employs digital systems for data processing and predictive maintenance, and is exploring AI to further enhance sustainability in manufacturing practices.
Commitment to Local Production
The Mossel Bay factory is committed to supporting local production with eco-friendly practices. Its focus on water neutrality and local packaging solutions highlights Nestlé’s dedication to sustainable manufacturing.
Nestlé’s Skimmelkrans dairy farm and Mossel Bay factory are leading examples of the company’s commitment to sustainability. By implementing advanced technologies, regenerative practices, and innovative solutions, Nestlé is making significant progress towards its goal of net-zero emissions and waste-free operations. These facilities not only contribute to reducing the environmental impact of dairy farming but also serve as benchmarks for sustainability in the industry.
