In partnership with Arise Integrated Industrial Platforms
At a time when the impacts of climate change are more visible than ever before, it’s never been more important for all industries to work at minimising their own environmental impact. While this will look a little different for every industry, it will almost certainly involve working to achieve a reduction in carbon emissions.
Many companies are making progress in this area, demonstrating that reducing emissions can indeed be both possible and practical. One of these companies is ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms, known as ARISE IIP. Here are some practical guidelines and tips that are helping the company work towards carbon-zero status. ARISE IIP hopes that these tips can also prove useful for other organisations seeking to reduce their own emissions.
One of the most crucial steps in achieving carbon neutrality is setting clear, science-based targets. In Gabon, ARISE IIP’s GSEZ (Gabon Special Economic Zone) has taken this step by committing to the Science Based Targets Initiative, aiming for near-term science-based emissions reduction targets and trajectory. As part of this goal, emissions-reduction efforts are aligned with climate science. By adopting these targets, industries can ensure their efforts both support global climate objectives and are in-line with industry peers.
Transitioning to renewable energy is another cornerstone of carbon neutrality. In Chad, ARISE IIP has installed solar farms with a capacity of 500kW, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and hydropower can drastically cut carbon emissions and provide a sustainable energy supply for industrial operations.
ARISE IIP has implemented various energy efficiency measures such as high-performance air-conditioning systems and low wattage lighting systems by incorporating LED fixtures for all indoor and outdoor lighting in Benin and Togo to reduce its overall building operational energy consumption by 20%-30%. High performance glass and insulated envelope used in the office buildings help in further reducing the energy consumption of the building.
Transportation and logistics are significant sources of industrial emissions. GSEZ has addressed this issue by shifting from road to waterways for its container transportation, reducing its carbon footprint by 17.4 kg of CO2 per container. Adopting more sustainable logistics practices, such as using electric vehicles or optimising supply chain routes, can significantly cut emissions.
Partnerships with relevant organisations can help industries to promote sustainable agriculture. ARISE IIP’s collaboration with the Rainforest Alliance aims to attain a balance where people and nature thrive together. This involves undertaking sustainable practices for commodities such as cashews, pineapple and soya, thus ensuring that the agricultural processes used do not contribute to deforestation or excessive carbon emissions.
Despite the best efforts of any organisation, some carbon emissions may still occur. Offsetting these through initiatives like GSEZ’s Blue Carbon Project (which focuses on mangrove restoration and afforestation – the process of creating new forests where they hadn’t previously existed) can help neutralise the impact of residual emissions.
Achieving certifications like LEED and EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) in buildings and factories demonstrates a commitment to sustainability. ARISE IIP’s facilities in Benin and Togo have achieved LEED Silver certification, showing how industrial buildings can be designed and operated to minimise environmental impact. These certifications provide a framework for creating energy-efficient, low-carbon buildings.
Driving innovation through clean technologies and sustainable infrastructure projects is vital. ARISE IIP’s approach includes leveraging of multiple factors – including resources, expertise and partnerships – to promote renewable energy and advocate for low-carbon policies. Collaboration with experts and academia can naturally lead to the development of smarter, greener industrial ecosystems.
Achieving carbon-zero in industry is undoubtedly a multifaceted and bold goal, but as ARISE IIP’s initiatives show, it is also an attainable goal, provided that commitment, innovation and strategic action are forthcoming. Industries can not only reduce their carbon footprint, but also lead the way in the global fight against climate change. The journey towards carbon neutrality is testament to what can be achieved when businesses ensure that environmental stewardship is prioritised equally with economic growth.
