Happy World Earth Day 2024

This Earth Day, the Earth whispers a little louder. The headlines may not scream it every day, but the urgency to protect our planet grows stronger. We've all heard the message, but the time for listening feels like it's fading.

At Haskè, we believe the Earth deserves more than just awareness. It needs action. That's why sustainability is woven into the fabric of our work. We focus on solutions that go beyond the surface, tackling the root causes of environmental challenges.

Let's use Earth Day as a springboard, not just a reminder. Let's commit to choices that reflect our deep respect for this planet, a responsibility we share for generations to come.

DID YOU KNOW THAT …

Plastic:

• Plastic pollution is a major problem in Senegal, with large quantities ending up in landfills, waterways, and the ocean.A 2023 study by the Coalition for a Plastic-Free Senegal found that the country generates over 350,000 tons of plastic waste annually. 

At Haskè, we have launched Taaral (Multi-Stakeholder Alliance for the Development of Circular Plastic Economy in Senegal), a collaborative initiative bringing together businesses, public actors, NGOs, and civil society organizations. The aim is to promote the development of a circular economy where plastic, a major source of pollution, never becomes waste.

Taaral: Overview | LinkedIn

Agriculture Waste:

• Senegal faces challenges in managing agricultural waste due to limited composting facilities and traditional burning practices.
• The absence of adequate storage facilities exposes agricultural harvests to pests and diseases, exacerbated by poor transportation infrastructure and limited market access.
• A 2022 report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates that Senegal loses around 20% of its agricultural produce after harvest due to poor storage and handling practices, contributing to waste. 

At Haskè, we spearheaded an innovative hackathon, Sen AgriHack 2023, on behalf of AICCRA (Accelerating Impacts of CGIAR Climate Research for Africa), aiming to mobilize a collaborative ecosystem where each stakeholder plays a key role in combating post-harvest losses. The objective was to catalyze the development of tangible and sustainable solutions with a real impact on reducing post-harvest losses in Senegal.

Emissions from Construction Sector:

• The construction sector in Senegal is a growing source of air pollution, with emissions from dust, brick production, and transportation of materials. One ton of cement generates One ton of Co2 in its production.
• While precise data regarding the construction sector's exact contribution to Senegal's overall emissions is limited, a 2021 report by the World Bank underscores the sector's escalating influence and emphasizes the urgency for regulatory measures and the adoption of cleaner technologies.

At Haskè, within our entity Haskè Ventures, we have incubated Compact, a company with a mission to provide high-quality compressed earth construction materials, gradually replacing polluting concrete with an eco-friendly alternative. Leveraging technical expertise, continuous innovation, and strategic partnerships, the company aims to revolutionize the construction industry while preserving our natural environment.

COMPACT: Overview | LinkedIn

Methane Pollution from Oil and Gas Industry:

• As of 2023, Senegal ranks 70th in global methane emissions. So far, the agriculture and waste sector are the main emission drivers. 
• However, Senegal recently discovered significant oil and gas reserves, raising concerns about potential methane pollution.

At Haskè, we helped an international organisation in this field in supporting collaborative African-wide initiatives to reduce methane emissions by mapping out partner networks across the continent.

In conclusion, as we commemorate Earth Day, it is vital to recognize the collective efforts needed to make our planet a more hospitable place for all.

At Haskè, we have contributed by initiating collaborative ventures such as Taaral and Compact, addressing critical environmental challenges head-on.

However, the call to action extends beyond large-scale projects. It encompasses the everyday actions and internal initiatives within our organization, from conserving electricity and water to reducing waste. Each individual must recognize their role in safeguarding the Earth and take meaningful steps towards sustainability.

Together, through both collective endeavors and individual actions, we can create a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.

Happy World Earth Day 2024 🌍