In a proactive move aligned with global best practices, the pan-African conglomerate, Dangote Group, has intensified its efforts to combat Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and promote environmental sustainability across all its subsidiaries. This initiative underscores the company’s dedication to reducing its carbon footprint and contributing to the fight against climate change.
As part of its commitment to reducing GHG emissions, the Dangote Group has launched an awareness campaign aimed at educating its workforce and host communities about the consequences of climate change and the importance of environmental sustainability.
Mr. Anthony Chiejina, the Group Chief Branding and Communication Officer, stated, “To mitigate gaseous emissions from our production process, our new plants are designed to be resource and energy efficient.” He further explained that the company has made substantial investments in modern equipment, including analyzers, opacimeters, and continuous emissions monitoring systems, to measure greenhouse gas emissions in real time.
Mr. Chiejina emphasized that the company’s climate goals extend beyond emissions reduction; they also encompass the protection and restoration of the environment. This commitment includes land reclamation and tree planting initiatives.
In recent times, Dangote organized a workshop for journalists in the North-Central and South-West geo-political zones of Nigeria, with the aim of raising awareness about the importance of reporting on climate change and environmental issues.
J.V Gungune, the Plant Director at DCP Obajana, emphasized that Dangote has implemented state-of-the-art facilities to address climate change concerns, recognizing the critical importance of preserving the environment. He stated, “We need the environment more than it needs us. Hence, the need to sustain the environment.”
Dr. Igazeuma Okoroba, Head of Sustainability at Dangote Cement Plc, highlighted the company’s comprehensive integration of environmental sustainability and climate change concerns into all its operations.
Dr. Eseosa Ighile, the Head of Sustainability at Dangote Cement Plc Obajana Plant, outlined several innovative strategies implemented to reduce GHG emissions. In alignment with the company’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12, alternative fuels (AF) have been adopted to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Dr. Ighile explained, “The AF project aims to achieve a thermal substitution rate of 25% in all plants by 2025, with plans to install AF feeding systems in all operation lines by 2024.” She also noted that the company has utilized resources such as tire chips, waste oils, and agricultural waste like palm kernel shells and rice husks as alternative fuel materials.
Dr. Ighile further highlighted the company’s climate action activities, including monitoring water, waste, and GHG emissions, the establishment of a decarbonization working group, and adherence to guidelines from both local and international organizations.
Adedeji Adewale, Head of Technical Training at Dangote Academy, revealed that Dangote Cement Plc employs electrostatic precipitators to capture dust and recycle it into the system. Additionally, Dangote Academy engages in extensive tree planting initiatives, including economic trees like mangoes, soursop, dates, and orange trees.
Mr. Adewale underscored the significance of tree planting in protecting the climate, regenerating the environment, and enhancing the health of local communities. Dangote Group’s multifaceted approach towards mitigating GHG emissions and fostering environmental sustainability demonstrates its unwavering commitment to combating climate change and ensuring a healthier, more sustainable future.
