"Pure financial profit is a dated benchmark," comments MD of GCX Africa, Ohad Shachar. "Companies should far rather measure success by the ability to deliver thick value - meaningful and sustainable value that does not compromise ecosystems or leave others worse off." GCX Africa believes that sustainable business should be the only business, as it not only makes companies more adaptable and resilient to change, but enhances profits that last.
To that end, GCX Africa collaborates with businesses to embed sustainability and innovation into their DNA, helping to create thick value. "We love to see people's imaginations run wild once they are exposed to the real possibilities and common sense of authentic sustainability," says GCX founder Kevin James.
The GCX Africa team is not only highly qualified and experienced, but they are passionate about what they do - and this is attracting top companies to their client base. Since the establishment of the Global Carbon Exchange brand in 2006, they have assisted over 20 of the top 100 JSE-listed companies with their carbon disclosure project submission and/or independent third party verification. The companies that they have assisted have achieved a significantly higher score than the average. GCX Africa has also trained over 1 000 people in carbon footprint analysis and carbon management, and worked with over 100 South African and African businesses.
"Due to Africa's development lag, the continent has a massive opportunity to do things properly," remarks James. "We are able to utilise the latest technology and learn from the experiences of the rest of the world to "develop" in a smart and responsible way ensuring enough for all."
In addition to advising companies on the road to sustainability, GCX Africa is also involved in cutting-edge research and innovation. Recently the company designed and registered a new carbon project methodology for tyre recycling. South Africa faces a massive challenge in dealing with an estimated 60 million legacy waste tyres, which are illegal at landfill sites, and the almost 11 million waste tyres that are added every year.
Approved by the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) Executive Board under the UN in October 2013, this new methodology enables companies to turn tyre waste into low-carbon energy and claim carbon credits. Using this process, 40,000 tons of rubber will generate 126,000 MWh of electricity and save over 22,600 tons of CO2.
There is no doubt that GCX Africa is already making a difference in the transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy, while building more valuable and prosperous businesses. James believes there are a number of key factors for success. "While changing our behaviour and strong political will is key, dynamic innovation and vivid imaginations are all critical success factors. I do firmly maintain though that the only thing that will ultimately get us out of the mess we are in will be a fundamental shift in human consciousness, away from excess and greed, toward a more efficient and compassionate world."
