AstraZeneca has underscored its commitment to addressing climate change and biodiversity
In recognition of World Environment Day 2024, themed 'Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience,' AstraZeneca has underscored its commitment to addressing climate change and biodiversity loss — two of the most pressing challenges of our era.
In alignment with the UN Environment Programme's call to action for #GenerationRestoration, which focuses on three priorities: reviving lands, ending desertification, and securing water, AstraZeneca is facilitating the interconnectedness of environmental and human health through the AZ Forest reforestation program and comprehensive water stewardship initiatives. These efforts are fostering resilience against climate change, improving air and water quality, and supporting biodiversity.
By 2030, AstraZeneca aims to plant and maintain 200 million trees across six continents with the AZ Forest initiative. This global project emphasizes agroforestry, regraded agricultural land, and natural forest restoration. It collaborates with local communities and landscape restoration specialists to optimize the co-benefits of reforestation, which include reducing the risk of natural disasters, promoting sustainable livelihoods, enhancing climate resilience, and protecting biodiversity.
Deepak Arora, Country President of the African Cluster at AstraZeneca, stated, "At AstraZeneca, we recognize that the well-being of our planet is intrinsically linked to the health of its inhabitants. Our commitment to environmental sustainability in Africa, exemplified by projects like AZ Forest and our extensive water stewardship efforts, extends beyond mere tree planting and water conservation. It's about fostering resilience and improving the quality of life for the communities we serve. On this World Environment Day, we stand proudly with local partners and communities to safeguard our environment and ensure a healthier, more sustainable future for all."
In Ghana's Atebubu and Sene West districts, AstraZeneca is collaborating with the Circular Bioeconomy Alliance and New Generation Plantation Technical Assistance to restore over 8,000 hectares of degraded land. By the end of 2023, 23 communities were engaged, and over 3.8 million trees were planted. This community-driven project aims to plant 4.7 million trees and includes environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis to monitor the impact on freshwater biodiversity.
In its efforts to protect water basins, AstraZeneca is dedicated to improving water quality, promoting efficient usage, and preserving ecosystems. The company is working alongside local communities to address shared challenges such as water scarcity, pollution, and habitat degradation. Through these joint endeavors, AstraZeneca seeks to bolster water security and fortify resilience against climate-related impacts.
To date, AstraZeneca has implemented rainwater harvesting systems and constructed wetlands to enhance water quality and availability for local communities. These initiatives are part of the company's broader commitment as a member of the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS), actively engaging in the promotion of sound water stewardship practices at its sites.
AstraZeneca is also collaborating with industry peers to develop a groundbreaking Roadmap to Nature Positive, specifically tailored for the pharmaceutical sector. This roadmap aims to accelerate business engagement and initiatives toward the collective goal of achieving nature positivity. By offering industry-specific guidance, these collaborative efforts are driving meaningful progress and ensuring a sustainable future for both the pharmaceutical industry and the environment.
AstraZeneca's global reforestation and water stewardship initiatives reflect its steadfast commitment to environmental sustainability. Through these cooperative endeavors, the company is making significant contributions to the preservation of our planet. By fostering partnerships and harnessing innovative solutions, AstraZeneca is charting a course towards a greener, healthier future for generations to come. Let us join forces in our mission to restore and protect our environment, securing a brighter tomorrow for everyone.
