Scotiabank volunteers tackle waste in Kingston Harbour mangrove forests 

Kingston, Jamaica, May 1, 2024 - With some 300 staff volunteers, the Scotiabank Jamaica Foundation (ScotiaFoundation) recently participated in the Great Mangrove Cleanup Project to remove waste from the Kingston Harbour’s mangroves.

In collaboration with the GraceKennedy Foundation and other corporate entities, the Bank worked to clear plastic waste and other garbage at the Sigarny Beach in the vicinity of Rae Town on April 27.

Hosted in recognition of Earth Week, the cleanup initiative is a phase of the Kingston Harbour Cleanup Project to clear the legacy waste materials that have washed ashore and occupied the mangrove forests and the shoreline of the southern coast, before the installation of waste-trapping technologies in seven of the most polluted gullies that feed into the harbour.

Audrey Tugwell Henry, President and CEO, Scotia Group Jamaica and director of the ScotiaFoundation lauded organisers and volunteers for their significant contribution to the restoration of the environment.

“Through initiatives like the Great Mangrove Cleanup, we are engaging with communities and other stakeholders to raise awareness about the importance of reducing plastic pollution and promoting sustainable consumption habits. Events such as this serve as important opportunities to educate and inspire individuals to take action and be integrally involved in the preservation and restoration of the environment for future generations,” she said.

She noted that the bank has been committed to integrating sustainable environmental practices in its business and corporate social interactions. This, she said, includes setting targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, supporting renewable energy projects, and investing in environmentally responsible initiatives.

“Scotiabank recognizes the critical importance of tackling plastic pollution and is committed to aligning its efforts with this year’s Earth Day theme. Through various initiatives and partnerships, we are actively working to reduce our environmental footprint and promote sustainable practices,” Tugwell Henry shared. 

Tugwell Henry encouraged environmental researchers to participate in the bank’s Net-Zero Research Fund, which supports organisations developing innovative research and opportunities to decarbonize key sectors and support the shift to a low-carbon economy.

Interested entities have until May 28, 2024, to apply for the grant. With a CAD $10 million commitment, the Net-Zero Research Fund is part of the international bank’s climate commitment to advancing global decarbonization.

Scotiabank’s grants in 2024 will range from CAD $25,000 to CAD $100,000. Organisations must be registered charities and non-profit organisations to be eligible for the fund.

For more information about the fund and how to apply, organisations can visit : https://www.scotiabank.com/ca/en/about/responsibility-impact/climate-commitments/climate-change-centre-of-excellence/net-zero.html. 

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