IndiaCSR News Network
MUMBAI: Tata Power, India’s largest integrated power company has been immensely committed to the cause of sustainable development and has undertaken various initiatives for conservation of nature. In line with this commitment, Tata Power today announced its plan to launch a unique employee engagement initiative to celebrate International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) on May 22, 2015 as proclaimed by the United Nations and increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues.
Tata Power is one of the signatories to the India Business and Biodiversity Initiative which will serve as a national platform of business and its stakeholders for dialogue sharing and learning, ultimately leading to mainstreaming sustainable management of biological diversity into businesses.
The company has planned to launch a ‘Site Biodiversity Mascot’ and called for entries across its operations for three relatively rare animal or plant species which are unique to that particular habitat and need care and protection. The company has also decided to launch a monthly photography contest, ‘Love thy Neighbour & Know thy Neighbour’ where employees need to identify and share snapshots of different habitats with their unique assemblage of plants and animals!
The company has also initiated several projects across its areas of operations to address the underlying causes of biodiversity loss and improve its status by safeguarding ecosystems, species and genetic diversity. In a recent announcement, Tata Power launched its call to action public campaign ‘Act for Mahseer’ which is aimed at spreading awareness about the mighty Mahseer to help preserve this valuable fish species in a big way at national level. The programme will involve the participation of Tata Power employees and customers, and public at large, to encourage responsible action with respect to these endangered species and to work for its conservation.
Speaking on this initiative, Anil Sardana, CEO & Managing Director, Tata Power said, “Biodiversity is the cornerstone of our existence on earth and, being a responsible corporate citizen, Tata Power has always actively initiated integrated conservation drives. We always say that Sustainability is a way of life, and this is weaved into every function of Tata Power.
The fate of humanity is tightly linked with biological diversity – the variety of life on earth. This delicate ecological balance is essential for sustainable development and human well-being. Let us all pledge again this year and commit ourselves towards conserving our valuable and rich biodiversity around our vicinity. The Company has embarked on a green highway to safeguard and promote biodiversity, and generate revenues from ‘cleaner’, more efficient technologies.”
Tata Power implements all related programs under its ‘Leadership with Care’ sustainability model in the area of Environment, Societal commitment, Bio-diversity as also Conservation of resources and values.
The Company has been actively involved in biodiversity conservation programs for over 40 years including tree plantation programs, environmental awareness sessions, habitat and species conservation programs etc. The company encourages the participation of employees along with their families, the community at large and has implemented partnerships with various organizations. This dedication and contribution will go a long way in conserving the environment.
Tata Power’s efforts at nation building is not just limited to lighting up lives by providing energy to the nation, but also includes caring for the community and flora and fauna near its areas of operations.
The company implements many such programs and enriches the biodiversity around its plant locations through the conservation of plants such as Saraca asoka, an important tree in the cultural traditions of the Indian subcontinent and Aerides crispa which is a species of epiphytic orchid native to western India. Tata Power also makes efforts for the protection of the malabar whistling thrush, striped tiger butterfly, palm civet, sambar and pangolin.