Lyn Frans
As part of a consistent effort to drive sustainability, prominent and leading energy conglomerate and infrastructure Sahara Group, in collaboration with Treedom, has embarked on an initiative to plant a minimum of 2,000 trees annually across Africa.
The anticipated impact of this initial tree planting effort is the absorption of over 450 tonnes of CO2 over the next decade. This tree collection, named ‘Asharami Groves,’ will be established in the company’s operational sites throughout Africa, commencing with the planting of 900 trees in Cameroon and 1,100 trees in Kenya.”
Sahara’s partnership with Treedom reflects its commitment to environmental sustainability. Treedom, a social organization established in 2010, has successfully planted over 3 million trees across Africa, South-East Asia, and South America. The trees are planted by local farmers, providing environmental, social, and financial advantages to their communities.
Ejiro Gray, Director of Governance and Sustainability, stated, “Sahara Group is dedicated to taking ambitious measures to combat climate change, and our partnership with Treedom marks a significant stride in realizing our sustainability objectives. We firmly believe that tree planting stands as one of the most effective methods to alleviate the effects of climate change, and we are pleased to collaborate with an organization that aligns with our vision for a sustainable future.”
Gray, emphasized Sahara Group’s unwavering dedication to environmental sustainability and its ongoing advocacy for initiatives aimed at preserving the environment and fostering a brighter future for all. The company has recently unveiled its 2060 net zero plan, designed to attain carbon neutrality by 2060. This commitment underscores Sahara Group’s proactive approach to sustainability, encompassing the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, the promotion of energy efficiency, and the integration of renewable energy sources.
Mario Pacifico, Managing Director of Treedom, conveyed his enthusiasm regarding the significance of the partnership with Sahara and the anticipated impact it will bring. “Treedom is delighted to collaborate with Sahara to plant a minimum of 10,000 trees over the next 5 years. We believe that the energy sector must play an active role in creating a positive climate impact, which Sahara will achieve through our agroforestry projects in Cameroon and Kenya. Furthermore, our farmer partners will directly experience social and economic benefits through these initiatives,” Pacifio stated.
Sahara Group’s collaboration with Treedom builds upon previous tree planting endeavors, exemplified by the plantation of 1000 trees within a 2km range at Egbin Power Plc, a Sahara Group power generation company. This initiative contributes to the preservation of ecosystem equilibrium. Furthermore, Egbin’s ‘Go-Green’ initiatives, featuring approximately 140 electric scooters and buggies, result in an annual reduction of 670,000kg of CO2 emissions.
Additionally, Ikeja Electric, a Sahara Group power distribution company, spearheaded the transition from paper-based to e-bills to advance sustainability efforts. At First Independent Power Limited (FIPL), another entity within the Sahara Group, a journey manager app digitally monitors movements necessitating the use of company vehicles, thereby curtailing unnecessary vehicle usage and promoting more efficient transportation and environmental sustainability.
Since its inception, Sahara Group has been a trailblazer in environmental stewardship and sustainability, consistently making significant contributions to the preservation of the planet. The company’s partnership with Treedom stands as a testament to its unwavering commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable practices.
One of Sahara Group’s notable initiatives involves the planting of 1000 trees within a 2km range at Egbin Power Plc, a Sahara Group power generation company. This endeavor not only showcases the company’s dedication to ecosystem preservation but also demonstrates its proactive approach to mitigating climate change.
Furthermore, Egbin’s ‘Go-Green’ initiatives, featuring approximately 140 electric scooters and buggies, have led to an impressive annual reduction of 670,000kg of CO2 emissions. This remarkable achievement underscores Sahara Group’s innovative efforts to promote sustainable transportation and combat climate change.
In addition to these impactful environmental endeavors, Sahara Group’s subsidiaries have also spearheaded initiatives to promote sustainability. Ikeja Electric, a Sahara Group power distribution company, led the transition from paper-based to e-bills, significantly reducing paper usage and advancing sustainable practices in the energy sector.
Sahara Group’s consistent dedication to environmental conservation and sustainable innovation has positioned the company as a leader in the global sustainability movement. With its forward-thinking initiatives and impactful partnerships, Sahara Group continues to set the standard for corporate environmental responsibility and remains a beacon of hope for a greener, more sustainable future.
