Econet champions green energy transition in climate action drive

STAFF WRITER

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe has underscored its commitment to sustainability and climate action by pledging to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and play a pivotal role in addressing the climate crisis.

In its 2024 Annual Report, the leading telecommunications provider detailed its initiatives aimed at curbing its carbon footprint and aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.

“We remain committed to reducing our carbon footprint and mitigating the environmental impact of our operations through considerations and initiatives that include emissions reduction, energy management, solarisation, waste management, and green advocacy,” the company stated.

The urgency of corporate climate action is reinforced by the scientific consensus on global warming. The United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) warns that surpassing a 1.5°C rise in global temperatures above pre-industrial levels would lead to intensified climate extremes, including severe droughts, heatwaves, and heavy rainfall. To avert these scenarios, the IPCC calls for global greenhouse gas emissions to peak by 2025 and decline by 43% by 2030. These targets align with the Paris Agreement’s goal to limit global warming to well below 2°C, ideally 1.5°C.

In 2024, Econet made notable strides toward reducing its environmental footprint by focusing on Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions. These efforts involved deploying renewable energy solutions at its base stations and implementing energy efficiency upgrades across its facilities. As a significant milestone, the company achieved 57% solarisation of its base stations, exceeding its planned target.

Recognising the importance of transparency and accountability, Econet submitted its inaugural report to the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP). This disclosure provides stakeholders with a comprehensive view of the company’s environmental impact and its mitigation strategies.

Econet’s initiatives are rooted in a broader understanding of energy’s role in economic and industrial development. The company emphasized that access to clean, affordable energy is essential for responsible production, consumption, and the realization of a circular economy.

“Energy is a prerequisite for many economic development activities,” the company noted. “Clean, affordable energy is an important input for industrial sectors and service industries. Energy management not only helps reduce carbon emissions but also decreases reliance on limited fossil fuel resources.”

Energy management, as Econet highlighted, involves proactive monitoring, control, and optimization of energy consumption to conserve resources and reduce costs. By integrating sustainable and renewable energy solutions into its operations, the company has demonstrated its dedication to responsible business practices.

Despite challenges posed by electricity supply shortages in 2024, Econet maintained uninterrupted network services by adopting a multifaceted energy strategy. This included installing 150 new generators for backup, upgrading battery systems, and deploying solar energy solutions. The company ensured that only generators with the highest compliance ratings and minimal environmental impact (Blue Band generators) were installed to align with its sustainability goals.

“The ongoing deployment of solar upgrades at base station locations is positively reducing our carbon footprint while offering affordable power,” Econet stated.

These measures have not only contributed to a greener operational model but also brought significant cost savings to the company. “In addition to mitigating global problems resulting from carbon emissions, managing energy consumption brings direct benefits to us as a company,” Econet affirmed.

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