Equity Group has planted 40,000 indigenous and exotic tree seedlings in Meru University as part of its 35 year anniversary celebrations.
The tree planting was in partnership with the Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST) where the trees were planted. This brings the total acreage under trees in the University to over 70 acres out of the total 540 acres representing a 13% forest cover. The planting of trees at MUST was supported by Equity Leaders Program University Chapters.
During the celebrations to mark the Bank’s 35th Anniversary a few weeks ago, Equity Group announced plans to implement an ambitious project to plant 35 million trees across the country within a year.
Speaking during the event, the University Chancellor stated that: “Humans have destroyed the earth’s vegetation cover amongst other environmental degradation so much that we are facing the challenge of climate change and global warming. The good news is, there is something we can do to reverse this trend of events. If we plant trees, we are only making our environment better for ourselves and future generations.” he said.
“Since the launch of the Chancellor’s Forest at MUST, 87,900 trees have been planted on 70 acres of land, bringing the total area under new trees to 13% of the total acreage of the University. This will make MUST the first university to have forest cover of over 10%, Dr Mwangi added.
The Vice Chancellor Prof. Romanus Odhiambo stated that the University Management, Faculty, Staff and Students are a family devoted to countering threats posed to societies by climate change. “We continually support and device new solutions through science, technology and environmental sustainability projects, such as our annual tree planting day, to play our role in dealing with climate change.” Said the MUST Vice-Chancellor.
Equity is a key player in the transition to clean energy that reduces reliance on wood fuel, charcoal and fossils fuels like kerosene as a source of energy. This is through financing and improving access to affordable, reliable and sustainable clean energy for all. EcoMoto Loan available on Equitel enables one to purchase clean energy products with a few clicks and taps on their mobile phone.
To date, Equity Bank has supported the distribution of over 100,000 clean energy products worth over US$ 6 million with 300,000 individuals benefitting from clean energy products such as solar and clean cook-stoves. It has established a robust distribution network of high quality renewable energy products throughout the country.