Inaugural Green Business Expo set for September this year
Story by Stanley James, Business Editor
ZIMBABWE’S industry is tapping into sustainable production methods that protect the environment with a Green Business Expo on the cards to lay the groundwork for achieving set targets.
Climate change has resulted in firms across the world focusing on sustainable production systems that protect the environment and stamp out carbon emissions.
With listed companies now required to disclose their ability to comply with clean production methods in their financial statements, the strategy is being extended to the entire business fraternity.
Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) chief executive officer, Mr Nicholas Ndebele confirmed that as part of consolidating sustainable production methods, a Green Business Expo will be held in September this year.
“It is the first time that we are holding such kind of an expo with the key thrust being on the need to ensure that industry and commerce is complying with carbon emissions reduction systems as the world grapples with climate change constraints. It is a platform that is relevant in light of the need to embrace clean energy systems with the focus being on how companies can use resources in a manner that will not deter the future generations in enjoying the same benefits. Therefore, several speakers are being lined up while the key focus will be on mobilising resources to embrace the concept,” he said.
He added, “The ZITF will host such an expo and already we are in discussions with the Government, the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency, including private sector representatives on what needs to be done to ensure that the strategy can translate into positive results. It is our hope and trust that going forward, Zimbabwe will also benefit from such an arrangement where the developing economies have been hard hit by the negative effects of climate change. No wonder why we are coming up with this expo to showcase strides on agenda, identify challenges and focus on the way forward.”
The Global Energy Journal defines green business as a concept where a company operates in an environmentally sustainable manner, thereby considering the impact of its operations on the environment and minimising any adverse effects that include reducing waste, conserving natural resources and using renewable energy sources.