Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo
Zimpapers Business Hub
British American Tobacco (BAT) has refined its sustainability strategy as the group seeks to take a leading role in tackling some of the biggest global sustainability challenges, including tobacco harm and climate change.
In a statement accompanying the group’s 2024 annual report and audited financial statements, BAT said the group aims to responsibly build a smokeless world by reducing the use of natural resources and delivering climate goals as the business transitions to a better tomorrow.
“The BAT group has refined its sustainability strategy and is seeking to take a leading role in tackling some of the biggest global sustainability challenges,” said BAT chairperson Mr Lovemore Manatsa.
“The strategy is underpinned by five impact areas, namely: tobacco harm reduction, climate, nature, circularity, and communities. BAT Zimbabwe is aligned to the refined group sustainability strategy, which has been adapted to local realities and is striving to create a meaningful impact in the communities in which we operate.”
At the factory level, Mr Manatsa said their sustainability efforts are guided by both short-term and long-term strategies focused on improving energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact. The group leverages Integrated Work Systems (IWS) tools, such as daily direction setting, to prioritise and address operational losses. Mr Manatsa said these efforts are essential for driving immediate improvements in their operations and and ensuring continuous optimisation.
“In terms of energy management, we have implemented various initiatives to improve energy efficiency, reduce power consumption, and reduce emissions,” he said.
Meanwhile, on the talent front, BAT continues to champion diversity and inclusion with key initiatives such as driving the increased representation of women and persons with disabilities (PWDs) across the business, as well as the introduction of an apprenticeship programme.
“Through the apprenticeship programme, we aim to bridge the skills gap between tertiary education and practical industry needs, creating workplace-ready future leaders,” said Mr Manatsa.
He added that the business is tracking at pace and has already scored a number of milestones including receiving Core certification by the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) for its efforts in driving good water governance (GWG) in its catchment area, maintaining zero-waste to landfill status, increasing representation of women and PWDs across the business, successfully implementing skills training initiatives for adult graduates, as well as supporting the health and safety of all employees.
“Reflective of the above, the board of directors believes that BAT Zimbabwe is in a strong position to continue delivering sustained value for shareholders,” said Mr Manatsa.
