Our carbon policy

It is widely acknowledged that climate change is one of the greatest environmental challenges facing the world today.  It is a result of a build up of greenhouse gases (GHG) in the atmosphere which trap radiation and result in increased surface temperatures.  Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is one of the most prolific GHGs and is released by burning fossil fuels and deforestation.  With increasing global temperatures it is predicted that there could be significant alteration in social, economic and environmental systems as a result.

Phytotrade Africa aims to become carbon neutral.  This means reducing ones carbon emissions through changes within the organisation as well through offsetting projects. PhytoTrade Africa aims to reduce the existing carbon footprint by implementing a carbon reduction action plan.  Emissions that can not be reduced through the action plan will be offset through offsetting projects in Southern Africa, and where possible through initiatives set up by PhytoTrade Africa members.

The carbon reduction action plan aims to;

• Improve energy efficiency.
  • Energy efficient light bulbs
  • Turn off electrical appliances at night, eg all monitors
• Recycle the following materials;
  • Glass, cardboard, card packaging and cartons, plastic bottles, paper, cans, tins, aerosols and ink cartridges.
• Review and reduce the amount of travel by staff members
  • Schedule meetings back to back to reduce frequency of travel
  • When travelling within Europe, where possible take the train rather flying.

PhytoTrade Africa will monitor our carbon emissions and produce an annul report detailing our carbon footprint for the previous year as well as steps taken to reduce the footprint and the results achieved.

PhytoTrade Africa will engage its partners and members in the carbon reduction campaign and encourage them also to take action against climate change in a bid to develop the natural products industry as a low carbon industry.

Definition of terms

Carbon footprints are calculated by adding up all CO₂ that is released by an individual, home, or organisation. These can be released through direct burning of fossil fuels, such as cooking with gas, indirect use of fossil fuels such as electricity consumption, and through travel. 

Carbon offsets are financial investments in third party projects that reduce GHG emissions or remove carbon from the atmosphere, such as tree planting, or projects that generate renewable energy.  Often these projects are in developing countries.