20 | Maintaining a sustainable focus T from page 18 More than 90 per cent of solid waste generated from operations is diverted from landfill. Waikato: Inghams Enterprises REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT As the bore water was thermally heated and came out of the ground at 30°C a heat recovery system, which transfers the heat from the incoming water into the hot water supply, was installed. Soy based feed was minimised as it is a product associated with deforestation necessitating investing in alternate feed sources. Packaging is a key focus and Matthew says Waitoa Free Range Chicken has made a huge investment in this area. “The aim is to reduce the amount of plastic used, use recycled plastic where possible and/ or recyclable content. “We are also part of the NZ Soft Plastics Recycling Scheme and fund the collection and processing of the used soft plastics in New Zealand. We are moving to having 100 per cent reusable, recyclable, or compostable packaging by 2025. We currently sit at around 90 per cent.” Waitoa is also aiming to have its packaging contain 50 per cent recycled materials by 2025, currently sitting at 30 per cent. It is also moving to rPET meat trays, which are made in New Zealand using at least 60 per cent recycled materials. Matthew says a scientific and evidence-based approach was taken towards reducing carbon emissions, water stewardship and sustainable agriculture and production at Waitoa. He says all the measures put in place so far have improved year-on-year and more than 90 per cent of solid waste generated from operations is diverted from landfill. Matthew says consumer research indicates more and more people are willing to pay a little more at the checkout for product that is produced more sustainably. Ingham’s expects this to continue to grow over time and is also due to shortly add new products to its Let’s Eat plant-based food range, which currently includes burger patties, tasty tenders and golden nuggets, to meet the demand from customers who want to eat more plant-based meals. “Our strategy is about doing good for our people, community, environment and busi- T Pandemic challenges - page 22 ness so we can contribute to both a business and an environment that is in a good place for the next generation.” Design & Detailing Structural, Architectural & Misc. Steelwork Stainless & Aluminium Fabrication Laser Cutting Waterjet Cutting CNC Press Brake folding CNC Machining TEL. 07 884 8232 EMAIL: enquiries@cullen.co.nz ‘Your Engineering Solution Specialists’
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