The Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA) is taking significant strides in its commitment to sustainability, paving the way towards a greener future through a series of eco-friendly initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental footprint.
ZINARA has demonstrated its dedication to sustainability by successfully implementing several initiatives. The organization has achieved efficient waste management, significantly reduced paper usage, actively participated in community clean-up programs, and invested in renewable energy sources.
Mrs. Tsungie Manyeza, ZINARA’s Head of Corporate Communications and Marketing, shared with Environment Zw that, “ZINARA has invested in color-coded bins deployed to all operating sites. We segregate paper, plastic, glass, cans, and biodegradable waste. Our staff have been trained on basic waste management practices and are mindful to dispose of waste in respective receptacles.
“Bulk paper waste from ZINARA offices is handed over to Kadoma Paper Mill, a recycling company. Bulk metal and plastic waste is given to waste collectors who collect for reuse and resell to recycling companies.”
She also mentioned that ZINARA has implemented additional conservation measures, such as significantly reducing paper usage by digitizing its internal payment processing system, which has led to a substantial decrease in paper consumption.
“All procurement systems and operational requirements are now processed through the SAP system, and training programs are underway to capacitate all staff members on using this system. Our newspaper subscriptions have been replaced by digital copies, and we have since reduced circulation by 70%. We are still refining our strategy around reduction with a target to gradually reduce paper use by 50% in the short term,” Manyeza said.
In addition to waste management and paper reduction, ZINARA is embarking on an ambitious solar installation program aimed at equipping all tollgates and offices with renewable energy solutions. This innovative initiative is set to significantly reduce the company’s reliance on grid power, leading to a substantial decrease in its carbon footprint.
“We are currently rolling out a countrywide solar installation program for all tollgates and offices. The tender for this project has been awarded, and we are now at the implementation stage.
“So far, a 32KVA solar system has been installed at the Highlands offices and Juru tollgate, and the contractor is currently working on three more sites. In terms of project implementation, we are at 40 percent. With this project, ZINARA’s on-grid consumption will be greatly reduced, thereby reducing the costs related to electricity while also reducing our carbon footprint,” she added.
The rollout of this program demonstrates ZINARA’s commitment to sustainability and its dedication to exploring eco-friendly alternatives. As the company continues to invest in solar technology, it is poised to become a leader in the adoption of clean energy solutions, setting a positive precedent for other organizations to follow. By reducing its grid consumption, ZINARA is taking a significant step towards a more sustainable future, aligning with its overarching goal of minimizing its environmental impact.
