44 | Sustainable successes The Maungatūroto site’s wetland water recycling system is a standout success story Fonterra Maungatūroto REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Fonterra Maungatūroto is setting a strong example for sustainable manufacturing and rural leadership in Northland, driving forward environmental innovation and supporting the next generation of dairy farmers. The Maungatūroto site’s wetland water recycling system is a standout success story, enabling the plant to recycle up to 700,000 litres of water every day. The initiative has reduced the site’s reliance on local water sources by as much as 25%, demonstrating how large-scale industry can work hand in hand with nature to deliver lasting environmental benefits. Extracted water from milk is channelled through a purpose-built natural wetland before being treated and reused on site — a process that not only conserves water but also promotes ecological health. The project earned Fonterra Maungatūroto the inaugural Environmental Sustainability Project Award at the 2021 Water NZ Awards. Chief Operating Officer, Anna Palairet, says the project highlights the Co-op’s commitment to long-term sustainability. “Our communities and Aotearoa New Zealand farms thrive when nature thrives. Working alongside our farmers, iwi, and environmental partners helps us protect and regenerate the environment we all depend on,” she says. That same commitment underpins Fonterra’s wider decarbonisation strategy, with the Co-op announcing new steps in its move away from coal. The transition is part of a nationwide effort to strengthen Fonterra’s renewable energy capacity across its manufacturing sites. Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Simon Watts, who recently joined Anna to officially open the Maungatūroto site’s new facility, congratulated Fonterra on taking a leadership role in clean energy. “The private sector has a leading role to play in increasing clean energy and meeting New Zealand’s emissions targets. I am thrilled to see Fonterra building their renewable energy capacity and getting one step closer to meeting their decarbonisation goals,” Simon says. Anna says investing in renewable energy solutions, such as electrode boilers, is key to ensuring Fonterra can continue to operate efficiently and sustainably. “Securing a reliable renewable energy supply is critical to the resilience of our operations and our ability to process milk efficiently both now and in the future,” she says. Alongside its environmental initiatives, Fonterra is also strengthening its social sustainability by investing in young people entering the dairy industry. In partnership with Growing Future Farmers (GFF) — a national charitable trust providing a farmer-led vocational training model — the Co-op has launched a new two-year programme that combines on-farm training with NZQA qualifications. Fonterra’s Group Director of Farm Source, Anne Douglas, says the initiative builds on a sector-wide effort to attract and support new talent. “We’re excited to partner with Growing Future Farmers to introduce a new generation to the diverse opportunities that exist within the Co-op and the dairy industry,” Anne says. “The mentorship provided by Fonterra farmers will be hugely valuable in helping students build confidence, skills, and a strong support network. This wrap-around support is central to creating a strong and sustainable Co-operative for future generations.” The pilot programme, modelled on GFF’s successful sheep and beef initiative, will be refined over time to ensure it continues to meet the evolving needs of students and the wider dairy industry. From restoring wetlands and reducing emissions to fostering future farmers, Fonterra Maungatūroto is proving that environmental and social sustainability go hand in hand — setting a benchmark for what a thriving, future-focused dairy industry looks like in Northland and beyond. Industrial Control Systems Specialists Proudly supporting Fonterra Manufacturing Operations in Northland Contact: Rob Good | Ph 021823701 | Email info@controlsynergy.co.nz 25B Herekino Street, Whangārei (09) 430 3186 martin.du @activerefrig.co.nz • Industrial refrigeration specialists • Refrigeration design and installation • Air conditioning design and installation • Project management Proud to Support Fonterra - Maungatūroto www.act iveref r igerat ion.co.nz
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