The Convener of ECOSEA, Mr. Joshua Ajayi, has said that it has been quite satisfying to be part of the forces orchestrating corporate sustainability practices.
He made this remark in his welcome address at the just concluded second edition of the Environmental Sustainability Conference, Expo, and Awards (ECOSEA) held recently at the Muson Centre, Lagos.
Speaking further on corporate sustainability practices, Mr Ajayi said, “ We have seen corporate sustainability practices evolve from just corporate philanthropy handled by the communications teams, into the core expertise built into the corporate vision with specific goals, indicators, activities, and effective communication strategy, handled by a crack sustainability team.
“As corporate philanthropy transformed into corporate sustainability, the motivation changed from just giving back, to integrating sustainability in the business model”.
He also explained the importance of communication in corporate sustainability impact. Mr. Ajayi said, “We believe It’s not enough to say you have made an impact if you don’t know how you’ve specifically impacted the community you are serving. It was this awareness and the consciousness that communication has always remained a key aspect of effective sustainability impact that led us to create a new print and digital platform that is powering this project, Impact Reports Africa”.
Commenting on COP28, the elated Convener said the theme for this year ECOSEA” Sustainable Collaborations And Nigeria’s Carbon Footprint” was inspired by vital issues discussed at COP28.
He praised the sustainability experts and professionals for their continuous push for a sustainable environment pointing out the historic agreements reached in COP28. The fossil fuel, the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the operationalization of the loss and damage fund and funding arrangements.
In his words,” It is quite soothing to note that all the campaigns and advocacies from different parts of the globe have not been in vain”.
Speaking on the goal for the platform, Mr Ajayi said, “Our goal for ECOSEA shortly is to create an annual platform that will steadily become the largest and foremost thought-leadership platform championing the cause of environmentally sustainable actions in Africa. We also want to create a platform where people can gather annually to showcase innovative and environmentally friendly products, services, and initiatives. We also want to be the most prestigious recognition platform for champions of environmental sustainability in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa while serving as a tool of inspiration to others”.
The event also recognised and celebrated individuals and corporate champions of environmental sustainability in the country such as Peju Ibekwe, Igazeuma Okoroba, CWAY Refill Water, Access Holdings, and Dangote Group amongst others.
