Damar Boerdery, Radyn Proper Boerdery, Bessie Bosch Boerdery, Bersdale, VD Berg Boerdery, PJ Beukes (Gelukwaarts), Niel Loubser Boerdery, Glen Fruin Farms, Villion Boerdery, Hutton-Squire Farms, Witvlei Apple Farms, Thandi Estate, Karwyderskraal, and Monteith Trust have been recognised on Carbon Heroes for their contributions to sustainability in the following areas:
Kromco is one of South Africa’s leading deciduous fruit packing facilities, based in Elgin/Grabouw, approximately 60km from Cape Town International Airport. We specialise in packing, grading, storing and marketing premium apples and pears for local and international markets. Kromco is 100% owned and supplied by producers from Elgin, Grabouw and Villiersdorp, operating as an extension of the farm with a strong focus on sustainable production and supply. Our modern facility and experienced teams ensure quality, service and long-term market relationships, delivering the right product, at the right time and quality, to global customers worldwide.
Several sustainability initiatives are implemented across Kromco’s farms and packhouse.
Kromco is committed to reducing energy consumption and improving operational efficiency. A significant solar installation generates renewable electricity on-site, reducing reliance on grid-supplied power and lowering environmental impact. The cold storage operations utilise energy-efficient refrigeration systems to optimise cooling performance while minimising electricity consumption. High-speed doors have also been implemented to reduce loss of conditioned air during the movement of people, equipment and product in and out of cold rooms. These initiatives support Kromco’s ongoing efforts to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions.
Vehicles are serviced and maintained regularly to improve operational efficiency, extend their useful lifespan and reduce unnecessary fuel consumption and emissions. Transport routes are also carefully planned and optimised to minimise travel distances, reduce fossil fuel usage and improve overall transportation efficiency.
Kromco and its producers are committed to responsible water stewardship and the continuous improvement of water-use efficiency. Producers utilise soil moisture monitoring probes and precision drip irrigation systems to optimise water application according to crop requirements, while applying good agricultural practices to minimise unnecessary water use.
Water filtration and recycling systems have been implemented to enable the recovery and reuse of water within operations. This initiative reduces freshwater consumption, limits water wastage, and contributes to minimising the environmental impact associated with operations.
Kromco producers recognise that healthy soil is fundamental to their livelihoods and are committed to its long-term protection and sustainability. Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) are implemented to minimise environmental impacts, including the use of cover crops, mulch and compost to improve soil health, structure and organic matter. Regular soil analysis is conducted to monitor nutrient levels and ensure that only the nutrients required by the crop are applied, supporting responsible resource use and maintaining soil fertility.
Kromco producers are committed to protecting and enhancing the natural environment within the EGVV area. Invasive alien plants are regularly identified and removed to prevent their spread and minimise their impact on indigenous ecosystems and water resources. Producers actively protect critical vegetation, natural habitats and important landscape areas from degradation. They also participate in conservation initiatives that promote biodiversity, preserve ecological integrity and support the long-term sustainability of the agricultural landscape and surrounding natural environment.
All Kromco producers and the Kromco packhouse, actively participate in recycling initiatives aimed at reducing waste, promoting responsible resource use and minimising the environmental impact of their operations. These initiatives support the recovery and responsible management of recyclable materials and contribute to Kromco’s broader commitment to environmental sustainability.
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