Standard Chartered, United Way champion environmental sustainability with tree-planting in schools

Standard Chartered, United Way champion environmental sustainability with tree-planting in schools

By Buertey Francis BORYOR

Chartered Bank Ghana PLC, in partnership with United Way Ghana, launched a tree-planting project on June 20, 2024 at the Kanda Cluster of Schools in Accra as part of efforts toward advancing environmental sustainability.

The environmental sustainability initiative aims to create a conducive learning environment in eight schools by planting seedlings that provide shade for outdoor learning and improve air quality, while also educating students and teachers on environmental sustainability practices.

It aligns with the bank’s corporate social responsibility commitment to addressing climate change and promoting environmental stewardship in the country, as well as supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) including: 4 – quality education; 10 – reduced inequalities; 11 – sustainable cities and communities; 13- climate action; 15 – life on land; and 17 – partnerships for the goals.

The event saw 40 staff members from the country’s premier bank collaborate with over 120 students from three schools to plant trees, and marks the initiative’s first phase which aims to reach eight schools within the Accra metropolitan area with a second phase scheduled for launch in Korley Klottey.

Ms. Faustina Abbey, Executive Director-United Way Ghana, addressing media during the event stated the project, supported by Standard Chartered, aims to plant 200 seedlings in eight public schools by the end of 2024.

“We will establish environmental clubs in these schools to provide 2,000 young learners with resources and training on waste management; including segregation, recycling and upcycling. This initiative fosters a culture of environmental sustainability, helping students understand their role in maintaining a green environment,” she added.

According to the Forestry Commission, Ghana’s government is pursuing an aggressive afforestation and reforestation programme that has led to the cultivation of almost 721,000 hectares of forest between 2017 and 2023 under the Ghana Forest Plantation Strategy.

Standard Chartered Bank Ghana PLC is the oldest commercial bank in the country, having been listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange since 1991. It has been the recipient of several local and international awards, demonstrating its leadership in the market. Through its employee volunteer programme, the bank’s staff actively participate in various activities to ensure a safe and sustainable environment.

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