Sundaymail Editor
THE Tobacco Industry and Marketing Board (TIMB) is looking for gas technology companies to partner to establish a centralised gas-curing facility for tobacco, a move aimed at curbing the use of firewood.
It is believed that tobacco farming contributes 15 percent to 20 percent of annual deforestation in Zimbabwe.
TIMB public affairs officer Ms Chelesani Moyo said the regulator was moving towards promoting sustainable tobacco production by finding alternatives for curing the cash crop.
“This is one of the sustainable curing initiatives which we are considering as a Board. Sustainable tobacco production is the efficient production of quality tobacco under conditions that limit negative impact on the environment. This also entails best agricultural practices that improve the socio-economic conditions of tobacco growers and communities in tobacco-producing areas,” she said. – New Ziana/Online Reporter
Online Reporter