DB Breweries has reduced its annual carbon emissions by a further 184 tonnes by rolling out a new fleet of electric forklifts. The reduction is equivalent to 350 return flights between Queenstown and Auckland.
The fleet replaces existing LPG-powered forklifts at DB’s two largest production sites, Waitematā Brewery and DB Draught Brewery in Timaru. It is part of the company’s wider ambition to attain zero carbon footprint in its operations by 2030 by removing carbon from its supply chain as opposed to purchasing carbon credits / offsets.
“This change is a significant step on our road to carbon zero. As a business, we are committed to reducing our emissions without using offsets and making choices like this is another way in which we can make a positive difference," said Peter Simons, Managing Director of DB Breweries.
“Small changes add up, and my challenge to all manufacturers is to look at your operations and consider where your opportunities for reduction are, before you turn to carbon credits” added Simons.
Simons is a member of the Sustainable Business Council Advisory Board and is taking the lead in collaborating with other businesses to achieve New Zealand’s emissions reduction targets via an achievable transition pathway. This year, DB implemented a biomass solution at DB Draught Brewery to reduce thermal energy emissions by 98% by October, decreasing DB’s total carbon footprint by 28%.
