By Bassey Udo
As part of its decarbonisation and green logistics agenda, Dangote Cement PLC says it has an additional 1,500 compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks to expand its alternative-energy transportation programme.
The company said the initiative was designed to lower greenhouse gas emissions, improve operational efficiency, and reduce dependence on conventional diesel-powered transportation system.
Also, the company has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable business practices, environmental stewardship, and responsible growth across Africa, as the company continues to integrate sustainability into every aspect of its operations.
The company said its sustainability strategy remains focused on reducing environmental impact, improving energy efficiency, promoting diversity and inclusion, supporting local communities, and creating long-term value for stakeholders across its ten African markets.
In addition, the company has reported significant progress in its environmental performance, earning an upgraded “B” rating from the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) for its climate and water management initiatives, reflecting growing international recognition of its sustainability efforts.
The company said its energy optimisation practices remain a key pillar of its sustainability strategy, with a favourable energy mix contributing to lower production costs, while supporting efforts to reduce its carbon footprint across operations.
Commenting on the company’s sustainability agenda, the Group Managing Director/CEO of Dangote Cement Plc, Arvind Pathak, said: “At Dangote Cement, sustainability is not a standalone initiative, it is embedded in the way we operate, invest and grow.
“As we expand our footprint across Africa, we remain committed to reducing our environmental impact through cleaner energy sources, improved operational efficiency and innovative logistics solutions, such as our growing CNG-powered fleet.
“Our goal is to create lasting value for shareholders, while supporting the transition to a more sustainable and resilient future for Africa.”
Recognizing that cement was essential for Africa’s development and infrastructure growth, Pathak said the responsibility of the Dangote Cement was therefore not only to produce quality cement, but to do so in a way that minimizes emissions, conserves resources, protects the environment and delivers meaningful benefits to its host communities.
Sustainability, he pointed out, remains central to the company’s strategy for long-term growth and value creation.
Besides, he said Dangote Cement’s sustainability agenda extended beyond environmental performance to strong corporate governance and social responsibility.
He said the company maintains a diverse Board, consisting of 28 per cent female representation and directors drawn from seven different nationalities, reinforcing its commitment to inclusion, diversity and global best practices in governance.
“The company also continues to align its sustainability initiatives with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on responsible industrialisation, climate action, economic growth and community development,” he said.
Dangote Cement noted that its sustainability performance complements a resilient business model that continues to create shared value for investors, employees, customers, host communities and governments across the continent.
Again, the company said it remained focused on transforming Africa’s industrial landscape, while advancing its ambition of becoming one of the most sustainable cement manufacturers globally.
Among others, the company said some of its sustainability highlights include Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) rating upgraded to B for climate and water management; acquisition of 1,500 additional CNG trucks to support low-carbon transportation and emissions reduction; continued investment in energy efficiency initiatives across operations; 28% female Board representation and directors from seven nationalities; sustainability initiatives aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
