Novaturas Sustainable Baltic Hotels

Green Getaways: Novaturas New Sustainable Hotels in the Baltics

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The company intends to expand its portfolio to over 950 sustainable lodging options.

Novaturas, a travel agency operating in the Baltic states, has unveiled a feature that lets clients choose their lodgings according to sustainability labeling.

Through this initiative, travelers can select lodgings that manage their environmental and social impacts in an ethical and effective manner.

Novaturas has incorporated a distinctive ‘sustainable choice’ label on its recently revamped website, signifying hotels that have received certification from third-party systems acknowledged by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. Presently, over 30% of Novaturas’ hotels spanning Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia proudly bear this sustainability label, and the company envisions further augmenting this selection in the coming phases.

Over 950 eco-friendly lodging options are planned to be part of Novaturas’ portfolio for the winter (November to March) and summer (June to September) of 2023–2024.

These sustainable choices extend to all of the company’s destinations, both in winter and summer, encompassing diverse locales such as Indonesia (specifically Bali), the Maldives, Mauritius, Portugal, Spain, and the United Arab Emirates.

“Our goal is to offer travellers the opportunity to select hotels that prioritise nature conservation, waste reduction, community support and cultural heritage preservation.”–Audronė Alijošiutė-Paulauskienė(Novaturas Group head of sustainability)

“We hope that this innovation will contribute to our strategic goal of increasing travel sustainability by empowering customers to make informed choices.”

At the beginning of this year, Novaturas unveiled its strategy for 2023–25, with a primary emphasis on prioritizing sustainable travel. Over the course of these three years, the company intends to channel investments into technological advancements, particularly in redesigning its website and refining the online booking process to ensure an exceptional user experience. Additionally, the focus extends to elevating the overall traveler experience, expanding sustainable trip offerings, and fostering collective engagement from the entire team.

The company also plans to expand its collaboration with partners who are committed to sustainability and to educating tourists about environmentally friendly travel options.

During the summer and winter, Novaturas provides trips to over 30 destinations worldwide, offering over 100 tour options.

Novaturas’ commitment to sustainability signals a positive shift in the travel industry, setting a precedent for eco-conscious practices. By integrating green initiatives and technological enhancements, they aim to reshape the future of travel towards a more sustainable and responsible direction.

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Clean Energy Challenges

Clean Energy Challenges: ESG Funds in a Dynamic Market

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In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable investing, 2023 has witnessed a notable deceleration in the demand for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) funds globally. Despite the tech sector’s commendable performance lifting returns, political controversies and concerns regarding “greenwashing” have cast shadows on the once-thriving ESG investment domain.

The surge in ESG investments during 2020 and 2021, fueled by the COVID-19 pandemic and a push for climate-conscious portfolios, gave way to diversification beyond fossil fuels. However, the momentum started to wane in 2022, coinciding with a surge in conventional energy prices.

Republican politicians in the United States spearheaded a political backlash against ESG, withdrawing substantial state funds and introducing bills aimed at curbing the use of ESG criteria. Simultaneously, suspicions of “greenwashing” – unsubstantiated environmental claims by companies – further contributed to the decline in ESG’s appeal.

LSEG Lipper data revealed a significant drop in net new deposits for funds classified as “responsible investing” in 2023, recording $68 billion through Nov. 30, down from $158 billion in 2022 and $558 billion in 2021. Despite this, the funds demonstrated resilience, posting inflows amidst challenges.

ESG funds managed to outperform the broader market, propelled by substantial exposure to technology stocks, including industry giants like Apple and Alphabet. The Dow Jones Sustainability World Index showcased a total return of 21.7% in 2023, outshining the S&P Global Broad Market Index.

Iain Snedden of Aegon Asset Management identifies a potentially more favourable market backdrop for sustainable strategies. Factors such as falling inflation, declining interest rates, and attractive valuations for growth stocks may contribute to the resurgence of ESG funds.

Despite the slowdown, total “responsible” fund assets reached $2.56 trillion by Nov. 30, 2023, reflecting an increase from $2.35 trillion at the end of 2022. This growth, excluding responsible funds, contrasts with the $52.6 trillion in all other global fund assets.

While responsible fund assets grew globally, Europe, representing approximately 80% of sustainable assets, experienced modest inflows. In contrast, U.S. sustainable funds faced outflows, primarily attributed to decisions by major players like BlackRock.

Pure-play sustainable funds, especially in the clean energy sector, encountered challenges in 2023. The Invesco Solar Energy ETF, for instance, saw a decline of 27%, reflecting the impact of rising rates and inflation.

Invesco’s EMEA ETF head of ESG product management, Sam Whitehead, acknowledged the challenges faced by clean energy in 2023. However, he emphasized the fundamental demand for solar, cost competitiveness, and supportive government policies as factors bolstering the outlook.

Despite the political backlash, companies that have invested in workforce diversity and climate change initiatives are expected to maintain their practices. However, a potential consequence may be reduced vocalization on ESG issues to avoid political entanglements.

Top asset managers BlackRock and Vanguard, amidst the controversy, scaled back their support for ESG-related shareholder resolutions in 2023. The overall support rate for these resolutions dipped from 29% in 2022 to 22% in 2023, according to the Sustainable Investments Institute.

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NRF's Launch of a Green Center

Revolutionizing Sustainability: NRF’s Launch of a Green Center

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The National Retail Federation (NRF) is introducing a cutting-edge hub designed to bolster and advance sustainability initiatives within the retail sector. This newly announced hub will serve as a pivotal support system, fostering the growth and implementation of sustainable practices across the industry.

The NRF Center for Retail Sustainability is dedicated to the pursuit of “generating economic value while concurrently producing net positive environmental, social, and community benefits.” In its initial phase, the center will concentrate on several key areas, such as harnessing consumer insights related to sustainable products and practices. Additionally, it will play a vital role in promoting the circular economy, with support from Deloitte, and enhancing supply chain traceability within the retail sector. This strategic focus underscores the center’s commitment to fostering sustainable practices that contribute positively to various aspects of the industry.

NRF Vice President for Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility The Center for Retail Sustainability’s executive director will be Scot Case. Senior sustainability executives will form an external advisory board to oversee it as well.

“The NRF Center for Retail Sustainability will augment industry sustainability efforts and resources across the retail sector, centralizing engagement across the full retail value chain,” –Matthew Shay(president and CEO NRF)

He further added : “Its work will highlight the many ways retailers are making their own operations more sustainable and making it easier for consumers to find high-quality, affordable and more sustainable products.”

As an integral component of the forthcoming NRF 2024: Retail’s Big Show in New York City, the NRF is set to organize a specialized Sustainable Retail Workshop scheduled for January 16.

“We are excited to work with NRF to scale successful sustainability solutions across the retail sector,” said James Cascone, sustainability, climate and equity leader, and advisory partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP. “With deep experience in the retail sector, retail supply chains and sustainability, Deloitte can help drive positive outcomes in supporting our industry move forward, including the Center’s development of an initial circularity roadmap for the retail industry.”

The announcement coincides with NRF’s forecast, anticipating a 3% to 4% surge in holiday retail sales from November 1 through December 31 this year compared to 2022. This projected increase is expected to reach a historic total ranging from $957.3 billion to $966.6 billion.

In conclusion, the NRF’s initiatives and commitments in sustainability can contribute positively to the global landscape by influencing industry practices, promoting responsible consumer behavior, and demonstrating that economic growth and sustainability can go hand in hand.

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Green is the New Gorgeous The Surge of Sustainable Beauty in the U.S.

Green is the New Gorgeous: The Surge of Sustainable Beauty in the U.S

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Sustainability has become a buzzword in the beauty industry, transcending traditional notions of clean beauty. In a recent report by NielsenIQ , it was revealed that U.S. consumers are increasingly prioritizing sustainable products. While the definition of sustainability may vary among individuals, it is undeniably gaining prominence in the decision-making process of beauty and personal care buyers.

When we talk about sustainability, it’s essential to understand the multifaceted meanings it holds for different people. For some, it involves small, daily actions like using reusable bags or limiting water consumption, while for others, it means supporting fair trade brands. The majority, however, associate sustainability more with its environmental impact than with social causes. According to NielsenIQ, 61% of U.S. consumers link sustainability with benefiting the planet, 57% with preserving natural resources, and 54% with reducing pollution. Surprisingly, only 33% associate it with better conditions for workers and 26% with societal contributions.

Despite the varying definitions, there’s a unanimous acknowledgment among consumers that sustainability is now more critical than ever. A staggering 62% state that sustainability has become more important to them in the last two years. This increasing awareness is not just headline fodder; it’s translating into tangible purchasing actions.

“Initially focused on eliminating perceived ’harmful’ ingredients, consumers now seek products that not only meet clean Beauty standards but also minimize environmental impact,” explained NielsenIQ.

Market trends reflect this shift. Sustainable segments across beauty are experiencing substantial dollar growth. Compostable products are on the rise with a growth rate of 30.9%, cruelty-free products are up by 18.1%, and plastic-free products have seen a 12.2% increase. This data suggests a transition from clean beauty 1.0, characterized by claims like ‘paraben-free’ or ‘sulfate-free,’ towards a more comprehensive and sustainable approach.

A notable aspect of this transition is the increasing attention to packaging waste. There has been a significant 64% surge in searches for refillable options. Consumers are sending a clear message – sustainability matters to them. This trend is not expected to fade away; instead, it is poised to continue shaping the beauty category.

NielsenIQ concludes that “Consumers are letting us know that sustainability is important to them, and it is a trend we can expect to continue to see in the beauty category. Brands must communicate clear messages about their sustainability efforts to cater to consumers seeking products that align with their sustainability goals,”

Brands in the beauty industry need to recognize this paradigm shift and communicate clear messages about their sustainability efforts. It’s not just about having sustainable products; it’s about letting consumers know about them. Transparency is key in catering to a consumer base increasingly seeking products aligned with their sustainability goals.

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Puma's Winning Play REFIBRE Technology

Puma’s Winning Play: RE:FIBRE Technology Dominates the Field in 2024

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In the ever-evolving landscape of sportswear, where style meets sustainability, Puma has emerged as a trailblazer. The brand has recently unveiled its game-changing move by incorporating RE:FIBRE technology into its 2024 football jerseys. This is not just a jersey; it’s a symbol of Puma’s commitment to a greener, more sustainable future.

Picture this – jerseys crafted not only from recycled plastic bottles but also from old garments and factory waste. Puma’s adoption of RE:FIBRE is not just a strategic move; it’s a revolutionary step towards combating the staggering issue of textile waste. These jerseys, set to debut in the 2024 Euro and Copa América tournaments, showcase Puma’s dedication to sustainability without compromising on style.

The RE:FIBRE Revolution

Traditionally, recycled polyester relied heavily on clear plastic bottles. Puma’s RE:FIBRE, however, transcends these boundaries. It incorporates a diverse range of sources, including factory offcuts, defective goods, and pre-owned clothing. The result? A vibrant palette of textile hues, moving the fashion industry beyond its conventional reliance on plastic.

The journey from waste to wear is a meticulous process. Collection, sorting, shredding, blending – RE:FIBRE takes textile waste and transforms it into a fabric ready to be melted, spun, knitted, and sewn into garments. This isn’t just recycling; it’s a symphony of sustainable practices ensuring long-term recyclability.

Puma’s Strategic Shift

Puma’s embrace of RE:FIBRE goes beyond the environmental impact. It’s a strategic move, redefining the brand’s approach to textile waste and production methods. The circular business model, aimed at rethinking traditional practices, underscores Puma’s commitment to a more sustainable future.

The Chief Sourcing Officer at Puma expressed unwavering enthusiasm for this new initiative. Highlighting the environmental risks posed by textile waste in landfills, the officer emphasized the brand’s dedication to reshaping production methods.

Sustainability Rankings on the Rise

Puma’s commitment to sustainability isn’t just lip service. The brand’s climb up Corporate Knight’s Global 100 Sustainability Index is a testament to its continuous efforts. Moving from the 77th to the 47th position, Puma stands as a beacon in the fashion industry, leading the way to a more eco-conscious future.

In the realm of sportswear, Puma isn’t just making jerseys; it’s making a statement. The adoption of RE:FIBRE technology symbolizes a shift towards a more sustainable and responsible approach to fashion. As consumers, we’re not just buying a jersey; we’re supporting a movement, endorsing a vision for a cleaner, greener tomorrow.

FAQs

1. How is RE:FIBRE different from traditional recycling methods?

RE:FIBRE incorporates a diverse range of sources beyond plastic bottles, revolutionizing the recycling process.

2. Which tournaments will feature Puma’s RE:FIBRE jerseys in 2024?

The 2024 Euro and Copa América tournaments will showcase Puma’s football replica jerseys crafted using RE:FIBRE technology.

3. How has Puma’s sustainability ranking improved?

Puma has climbed from the 77th to the 47th position on Corporate Knight’s Global 100 Sustainability Index due to its relentless commitment to sustainability.

4. Is RE:FIBRE only used for football jerseys?

Initially introduced in training jerseys and football kits, Puma aims to expand the use of RE:FIBRE technology across its product range.

5. Can consumers recycle Puma’s RE:FIBRE jerseys?

Yes, Puma’s commitment to a circular business model ensures that RE:FIBRE jerseys are designed for recyclability, promoting a sustainable end-to-end lifecycle.

For more details visit: Puma’s RE:FIBRE

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Japanese Logistics Company Seals Dual Green MoUs

SustainShip: Japanese Logistics Company Seals Dual Green MoUs

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A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed by MOL and DP World to investigate ways to improve Jebel Ali Port’s auto logistics capabilities and lower carbon emissions in port and maritime applications in the United Arab Emirates and abroad.

Ajay Singh, the MOL Group Managing Executive Officer in charge of the group’s business in the Indian subcontinent and Middle East, and Abdulla bin Damithan, the CEO of DP World GCC, signed a document at the Al Majilis meeting room in Jafza 15 on the same day as COP 28.

Under this agreement, the companies will explore potential business opportunities involving the storage, improvement, and strategic redistribution of fully assembled cars via Jebel Ali Port. The collaboration’s focus on decarbonization aims to advance the local market for eco-friendly fuels in maritime and port operations, along with other areas related to reducing carbon emissions.

“MOL is honored to strengthen our relationship with DPW. MOL is already a major operator at Jebel Ali, and the new initiative aims at investing in facilities to further widen the scope of our operation there. It will contribute to the development of our auto logistics business in the Indian Ocean region, within which Jebel Ali is a highly efficient and modern gateway. The maritime decarbonization project fits in well with our environmental roadmap, and through it we aim to transition several hundreds of vessels calling in the region to clean fuels in coming years, and to grow clean marine fuel supply chains in the GCC and beyond”-Ajay Singh, MOL 

“DP World and MOL have a shared vision for sustainability and excellence in global maritime logistics and we look forward to strengthening our partnership through this MoU. With this agreement, we will combine our expertise to explore ways of enhancing the automotive supply chain and supporting decarbonization efforts for the sector in the UAE and the wider Middle East.”-Abdullah bin Damithan, DPW

MOL has additionally entered into an MoU with Bapco Energies to collaboratively develop cross-border transport and sequestration of carbon dioxide (CO2), establishing a value chain for carbon capture and storage (CCS).

Within this collaboration, MOL manages the maritime transportation of liquefied CO2, while Bapco Energies oversees the provision of sequestration sites. CCS stands out as one of the most effective solutions for achieving a low-carbon or decarbonized society. MOL and Bapco Energies are partnering to jointly develop a comprehensive CCS value chain, encompassing separation, capture, transport, injection, and storage of CO2. The collaboration involves the following studies:

  • Conducting a study on the estimated cost of utilizing Bapco Energies’ permanent CO2 storage in the Kingdom of Bahrain. This includes assessing the receiving cost of CO2 at the terminal and the unit cost of transporting liquefied CO2 by ship.
  • Collaboratively studying potential markets in the Asia Pacific regions and engaging in good-faith discussions about future business structures.

“As a developer and a provider of a variety of social infrastructure business in addition to traditional shipping, MOL is honoured and excited to have an opportunity to collaborate with Bapco Energies. We believe there is a significant synergy in our cooperation to create CCS value chain, also to become a bridge between the Kingdom of Bahrain and Asia-Pacific regions.” –Takeshi Hashimoto, President & CEO of MOL

“We have recently concluded a study confirming that the Kingdom of Bahrain’s CO2 storage capacity exceeds its needs to meet its Net-Zero target by 2060. This opened exciting opportunities for us, including the development of cross-border CO2 transportation and storage. This collaboration with MOL underscores our unwavering dedication to achieving a low-carbon future in line with the Kingdom of Bahrain’s climate targets.” –Mark Thomas, Group CEO of Bapco Energies

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Banking on a Green Future

Sustainability’s Impact: Banking on a Green Future

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In a time of changing global temperatures and geopolitical unrest, banks play a crucial role in promoting sustainability. Transparent reporting and disclosure of ESG elements is a crucial component of this endeavor as it provides the foundation for sustainable banking and boosts credibility. A strong system of accountability is established by banks that reveal their ESG performance and objectives and pledge to ethical business practices. This fosters trust among stakeholders and opens the door for sustainable development and economic resilience, which are the pinnacles of corporate responsibility.

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) disclosures have become an essential part of bank public reporting as environmental and social factors increasingly influence investment decisions. A wide range of ESG concerns, including water consumption, human rights, diversity, ethics, sustainable financing, and governance practices, are clarified by these disclosures. Regulators from all around the world are realizing how important ESG considerations are when evaluating possibilities and hazards for financial firms.

Fostering Trust and Strengthening Risk Management: Constructing Bridges for Investors

Good ESG reporting is more than just a responsibility; it’s a proactive instrument for risk management. Banks that support open disclosure obtain important knowledge about their effects on the environment and society. Equipped with this understanding, they can anticipate and address possible ESG hazards, promoting adaptability in a constantly changing environment. Financial institutions can better position themselves in a world of extraordinary change by evaluating both risks and possibilities.

Mashreq has skillfully adopted extensive ESG reporting frameworks such as GRI, SASB, and regulatory reporting mandates like the DFM ESG guidelines. Importantly, the bank’s sustainability reporting undergoes thorough third-party verification, adhering to AA1000AS standards.

In a landscape where investors are placing growing emphasis on ESG factors when making decisions, transparent reporting becomes crucial in reinforcing investor confidence and promoting sustainable investment. As stakeholders intensify their attention on ESG considerations, banks offering comprehensive information on these factors gain a substantial competitive edge to navigate the evolving investment terrain and capture the interest and trust of investors.

This change in thinking toward sustainable investment is a symptom of a worldwide movement, not just a passing fad. Banks are leading this shift as investors look for harmony between their values and portfolios.

Thorough ESG reporting conveys to investors that banks have robust risk assessment capabilities in addition to extensive risk management plans. It also serves as an example of responsible banking practices. Our view is clear about how disclosure promotes trust and accountability: ESG disclosures are essential to responsible banking and are not only a PR stunt. For a variety of stakeholders, including investors, regulators, consumers, and others, these disclosures are essential tools. They aim to comprehend how banks contribute to sustainable value development and manage ESG risks.

Creating Impact with Tailored ESG Financial Solutions

In the dynamic realm of global finance, where economic choices can reverberate across societies and ecosystems, it is essential for banks to remain watchful. Their responsibility extends beyond profitability to a steadfast commitment to understanding the broader implications of their financing endeavors. Regional banks are progressively recognizing their pivotal role in spearheading the shift towards sustainable, low-carbon growth. This involves channeling financial resources into projects and offerings that are sustainable, climate-friendly, and financially viable.

The banking industry’s financial services and products, as well as the people, businesses, and endeavors they finance, have the biggest influence on society. As such, banks ought to give careful consideration to the collateral effects of their lending and investing activities. In order to achieve this, Mashreq is working on creating its Sustainable Financing Framework, which will make it easier to issue sustainable finance instruments—a term that refers to green, social, or sustainability instruments.

With the help of this framework, the bank is able to maintain ongoing communication with stakeholders, demonstrate its advancements in creating a sustainable portfolio, incorporate ESG standards into the lending and investment procedures, and improve the way it understands and incorporates sustainability into its overall business operations.

Sustainability-linked financing is on the rise, exemplified by Bapco Energies in collaboration with Mashreq and Gulf International Bank B.S.C., which secured the largest sustainability-linked loan (SLL) in the region. Unlike traditional loans, SLLs tie the borrower’s interest rates to specific sustainability performance indicators (SPTs) and related key performance indicators (KPIs), including reductions in carbon emissions. Successfully meeting these targets earns companies favorable interest rates, while failure results in higher rates. SLLs encourage companies to align financing and sustainability goals, driving sustainable banking practices forward.

Sustainable banking practices are becoming more and more necessary in our dynamic world, rather than just a choice. The future foundation of a sustainable banking ecosystem will be proactive risk management, transparent reporting, and responsible investing. The transformation of financial institutions across the globe will be propelled by a dedication to sustainability, accountability, and trust in their journey towards sustainable banking.

Banks can effectively lead the shift towards a more environmentally friendly and socially responsible financial landscape by adopting these principles. By taking the initiative, they not only secure their own resilience but also play a crucial part in creating a sustainable and prosperous future for everybody.

The insights shared in this blog post were graciously provided by Senior Executive Vice President and Group Head of International Banking at Mashreq.

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Breaking the Mold CiCLO Technology in Champion's New Sportswear Line

Breaking the Mold: CiCLO Technology in Champion’s New Sportswear Line

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Champion Athleticwear has taken a bold step forward in the fight against microplastic pollution with its latest release—a ground-breaking collection designed to make a positive impact on the environment. The new line features joggers and crewnecks crafted from Eco Future Reverse Weave with CiCLO technology, setting the stage for Champion’s ambitious “Eco Future” project.

CiCLO technology is at the heart of this eco-conscious initiative. It’s a scientifically developed and patented method that allows synthetic fabrics, particularly those containing polyester fibers, to mimic natural fibers when released into the environment. This innovation is a game-changer, as it ensures that CiCLO-enhanced fabrics can be broken down completely by microorganisms into harmless elements, significantly reducing the presence of plastic textile fibers in the environment.

The Eco Future Reverse Weave fabric, with the integration of CiCLO technology, marks a significant leap in sustainable sportswear. The collection not only addresses the issue of microplastic pollution but also incorporates dyes derived from natural sources, such as pomegranate, annatto fruit, and terminalia chebula fruit. This move towards natural dyes aligns with Champion’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

Scheduled for release on December 6, the Eco Future Reverse Weave collection couldn’t come at a better time, just in time for the holiday season. The timing of the launch underscores Champion’s dedication to providing environmentally conscious choices for consumers during a time when sustainable living is increasingly at the forefront of people’s minds.

Vanessa LeFebvre, the President of Global Activewear at Champion, expressed the brand’s commitment to creating solutions for a better tomorrow. This collection is a tangible manifestation of that commitment, showcasing Champion’s dedication to innovation and evolution in the pursuit of positive environmental and community impact.

The debut of the Eco Future Reverse Weave line is not the only exciting news from Champion. It coincides with the launch of the brand’s inaugural global campaign, ‘Champion What Moves You.’ This campaign transcends the traditional notion of ‘Champion‘ as a symbol of victory, transforming it into a call to action. The campaign aims to inspire meaningful and impactful change, encouraging individuals to contribute to a better world.

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R100M-Eco-Investment-by-Mercedes-Benz-SA-

Solar Shift: R100M Eco-Investment by Mercedes-Benz SA

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Affirming its dedication to environmental sustainability, Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA) is making a significant R100 million investment in an innovative initiative. The plan involves the installation of 22,847 photovoltaic (PV) solar panels at its East London manufacturing facility. This strategic move aims to harness solar energy for electricity generation, playing a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions throughout the manufacturing process.

This ambitious effort is in line with Mercedes-Benz’s larger sustainable business plan, known as Ambition2039, and represents the second stage of MBSA’s journey towards attaining net carbon-neutral manufacturing. The massive automaker wants to use renewable energy sources for production to meet more than 70% of its energy needs by 2030.

“The installation of the Photovoltaic solar panels at our manufacturing plant is a key pillar of our energy strategy and will contribute towards the East London plant’s daily maximum demand requirement of 12MW in times of peak demand.”–Andreas Brand (CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Executive Director for Manufacturing)

He also underlined the additional R100 million invested in the second phase of the photovoltaic solar energy project, emphasizing how this will accelerate the company’s corporate citizenship mandate and aspirations for carbon-neutral manufacturing.

The brand conveyed the company’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, affirming that:

“As a company, we are working strategically towards delivering on our sustainability commitments, and feed-in agreements are required to utilize the new capacity from 2024 onwards. It remains our collective responsibility to safeguard the environment for future generations. To this effect, we call on all stakeholders to respond swiftly and to deliberately act towards helping to curb the exacerbating electricity situation in South Africa. Every action counts.”

In addition to displaying MBSA’s dedication to environmental sustainability, the purchase of PV solar panels satisfies a legislative directive to lessen industrial electricity use on an overloaded electrical system. The PV installation also acts as a renewable energy source and provides an affordable energy alternative.

The initial stage of the project, which encompassed installing 3,692 PV solar panels, concluded in 2022, generating 2MWp (megawatt peak). The subsequent phase will extend to five more rooftops at the East London Plant, incorporating 22,847 solar panels. This expansion is set to increase the manufacturing plant’s capacity by an additional 12.6MWp (megawatt peak). With a cumulative count of approximately 26,539 solar panels, the total capacity will reach 14.6MWpeak, aligning seamlessly with the East London Plant’s maximum energy demand on any given production day.

Beginning in the first quarter of 2024, the project will be carried out in collaboration with a nearby supplier. When the PV system is finished, it should account for about 20% of the East London Plant’s yearly MWh (megawatt-hour) consumption, which would be a major step toward environmentally friendly and sustainable manufacturing methods.

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ACI's COP28 Revelation Pioneering Sustainability in Concrete Construction

ACI’s COP28 Revelation: Pioneering Sustainability in Concrete Construction

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In the vibrant city of Dubai, ACI is set to make history alongside NEU, revealing ground-breaking sustainability efforts at COP28, from November 30 to December 12, 2023. This monumental announcement is scheduled for December 6, 2023, at the Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA) pavilion. Let’s dive into the details of ACI’s commitment to reshaping the future of concrete construction.

On that memorable day, Tony Nanni, the President of the American Concrete Institute, and Dean Frank, the Executive Director of NEU, will be the voices echoing sustainability. They’ll be shedding light on how the built environment can undergo a transformative shift. But what exactly are they unveiling? Stick around; we’re getting to that exciting part.

Concrete’s Unique Role in Shaping Civilizations

President Nanni rightly emphasizes the unique opportunity the concrete construction community holds. It’s not just about buildings; it’s about fundamentally changing how civilizations are built. ACI and NEU are at the forefront of this mission, poised to share knowledge and collaborate with like-minded organizations.

What exactly is COP28? The Conference of the Parties, initiated by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), is convening its 28th meeting in Dubai. For almost three decades, member countries have gathered annually to address climate change, quantify its impacts, and determine global programs and responsibilities.

Established in 2018, the Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA) is a key player in the sustainability game. Committed to making concrete the sustainable building material of choice, GCCA collaborates closely with ACI as an International Partner. Together, they aim to develop and disseminate information on concrete, concrete structures, and, most importantly, concrete sustainability.

Concrete Steps Towards a Sustainable Future

Curious about ACI’s initiatives and participation in COP28? Head over to concrete.org for a deep dive into their projects and contributions. It’s not just an announcement; it’s a commitment to leading the way in sustainable concrete practices.

ACI and GCCA aren’t just acquaintances; they’re partners in shaping a resilient and sustainable concrete future. Explore how these two organizations work together to ensure concrete is recognized as the go-to building material for today’s needs.

Concrete isn’t just a mixture of sand, cement, and water; it’s the foundation of tomorrow’s structures. Discover how ACI and NEU are unlocking the potential of concrete to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving world.

What good is talk without action? ACI and NEU are not just about discussions; they’re about turning sustainability ideals into concrete reality. Explore the steps they’re taking to make a lasting impact.

A Glimpse into the Future

Picture this: The GCCA pavilion, the epicenter of innovation and sustainability at COP28. Dive into the atmosphere where ideas, commitments, and the future of concrete construction collide.

Concrete.org isn’t just a website; it’s a gateway to a treasure trove of resources for the concrete construction industry. Find out about the new resource ACI and NEU are unveiling and how it will shape the industry’s future.

As ACI and NEU take center stage at COP28, it’s not just about announcements. It’s about laying the foundation for a sustainable tomorrow. The concrete construction community has a unique role to play, and ACI is leading the charge.

To obtain additional details regarding ACI’s initiatives and engagement in COP28, kindly visit concrete.org.

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