We have been fortunate to win the Commercial section of the Tasman Nelson Environment Awards.

Our entry was based on the work on sustainability that has been undertaken by the nursery team over the last three years.

Sustainability principles have been integrated into as many areas of the nursery business as possible, developing a sustainability culture amongst staff. Our staff come up with new ideas on a weekly basis, leading to changes in practice that all help to keep us in business. A green business is a successful business.

Nelmac nursery initiatives include, ensuring that all our packaging that leaves the site is either reusable or recyclable. Water usage has been a strong focus over the last year with a considerable saving in water costs made even with an increase in production. Similarly fertiliser rates are continually being adjusted to ensure that the minimum amount of fertiliser is being used to achieve the grades desired. In the words of Mike Gafa our nursery teamleader, ‘we live and breathe sustainability in our business’.

The journey towards sustainability is ongoing but we are now well on the way.