In early November, the teams of Kyiv and Dnipro offices of BDO in Ukraine collaborated to participate in an urban greening initiative.
As part of the company’s ambition to reduce its carbon footprint, BDO in Ukraine planted trees in Kyiv and Dnipro.
Kyiv, Pozniaky Lake, 30 willow trees
Planting willows near lakes has several considerable advantages:
- Strengthening the coastline: The root system of willows holds the soil in place, reducing the risk of coastal erosion and preventing landslides.
- Water purification: Willows are effective at absorbing pollutants from water, including heavy metals and excess fertilizers. By filtering the water, they contribute to the natural purification of lakes.
- Reduced evaporation: The shade of the willows lowers the water temperature, reducing evaporation, which is important for maintaining stable water levels in arid regions.
The average absorption rate of CO₂ by young willows (under 10 years old) is approximately 5-10 kg per year. Therefore, 30 young willows can absorb approximately 150 kg of CO₂ in their first year of growth.
Dnipro, Lazar Globa Park, 20 pine trees
Planting pine trees in the center of Dnipro will cause the following environmental benefits:
- Enhancing air quality: Pine trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, which improves air quality by cleansing the air of harmful impurities. Additionally, they emit phytoncides, volatile substances with antibacterial properties that reduce the number of pathogens in the air.
- Noise reduction: Dense pine needles effectively absorb sound waves, diminishing noise pollution in urban areas.
- Provide shade and reduce temperatures: Tall trees provide shade and help to reduce temperatures during the summertime while improving the microclimate in the city.
- Support for biodiversity: Pine trees create a habitat for a variety of birds and insects that contribute to the preservation of the urban ecosystem.
Young pines up to 2-3 years old have an average absorption rate of 5 kg of CO₂ per year. Consequently, 20 young pine trees can absorb approximately 100 kg of CO₂ in their first year of growth.
The campaign was supported by the company’s employees, as well as their families and friends.
The tree planting was conducted in collaboration with the Million Trees NGO and with the support of Kyivzelenbud.
This initiative not only improves the urban environment, but also emphasizes the responsibility of BDO in Ukraine to society and nature, contributing to the creation of better conditions for future generations.
Therefore, ESG initiatives, such as tree planting, not only demonstrate the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility, but also serve to unite employees around shared values, fostering a corporate culture that is firmly rooted in sustainable development.
Incorporate environmental values. To get professional assistance in developing or implementing an ESG strategy that meets your business goals and ensures a positive impact on society and the environment, please contact BDO in Ukraine.
