The first distribution will take place in Delft where 500 trees will be distributed to community members through FTFA's Trees for Homes programme. An additional 500 trees will be planted on 30 September and last 492 trees soon after. These 1,492 trees will sequestrate 551 tons of carbon dioxide, mitigating climate change.
"In addition to planting trees to off-set carbon emissions Impahla Clothing installed a solar energy system consisting of 131 solar panels which generates approximately 48MWh/annum and feeds directly into the electricity grid, offsetting consumption and approximately 1,150 tons or carbon over the lifetime of the system," says Gillian Mitri of Imphala Clothing.
Imphala Clothing is committed to ensuring a minimal environmental impact of their manufacturing operation. Although a relatively small company, Impahla believes that as a good corporate citizen it is their responsibility to monitor, manage and report on their total carbon footprint in the form of the amount of carbon emitted into the atmosphere as a result of their daily operations.
Some of the other environmental initiatives implemented by Impahla Clothing include the usage of energy-efficient light bulbs and fixtures in all areas and maximising the use of natural light through translucent roof sheeting to illuminate the factory floor and to provide natural heating during winter months. They employ large roller doors to create a cross-wind cooling effect in summer, thus reducing its reliance on electricity to create a favourable working environment and have installed low volume dual-flow toilets in all of their bathrooms.
"This is a responsible company that sets an example for other to follow," said founder of FTFA Jeunesse Park. "If all companies had this same commitment South Africa would be on a stronger path to mitigating the devastating effects of climate change."
