In keeping with global environmental sustainability trends, logistics services provider Unitrans has increased its ESG* efforts by partnering with Adopt-a-River in a river clean-up initiative as part of International Water Week.
A statement said: “The event, held at the Unitrans depot in Clairwood, Kwa-Zulu Natal, on 23 August, showcased a robust collaboration among critical stakeholders, including neighbouring companies, the community and the government.”
Unitrans CEO Terry Bantock emphasised that the company had prioritised several sustainability goals, and had made a firm commitment to making a positive impact and being responsible in its water consumption.
"The clean-up day is a reflection of this,” he said.
“Through initiatives like this, we aim to inspire and encourage a broader movement towards safeguarding our planet for future generations."
The initiative involves waste collection from the Umhlatuzane River adjacent to the company's Clairwood depot, tackling illegally dumped waste and controlling the alien invasive species along the riverbank.
The clean-up day also highlighted ongoing efforts to restore the Umhlatuzane River, by clearing some significant sand deposits and blocking off slip road access, which was illegally used for washing vehicles and dumping waste and chemicals into the river.
Unitrans and Adopt-a-River embarked on this journey in November 2022 already.
The founder and director of Adopt-a-River, Janet Simpkins, said: “The need for water security, particularly in the face of global climate change, cannot be over-emphasised. Protecting our precious water resources and keeping them pollution-free is vital."
*Environmental, Social & Governance.
Unitrans' depot next to the Umhlatuzane River.
People from across the spectrum participated in the river clean-up.
Working for Unitrans means working for the environment.