OLORUNDARE ENIMOLA
The Lagos State Bus Service Limited LBSL in its day to day decision making and operations is applying the State’s strategic framework on Climate Action Plan, which is wrapped in the Lagos State Transport Policy.
Emeka Ogwo, the Head of Legal Services at the Company gave a breakdown of the Company’s effort during its fifth year anniversary held last week Wednesday, said: “LBSL as a vital component of Lagos State’s transport infrastructure, recognises the significant impact our operations have on the environment. Currently, the transport sector is responsible for generating about 20% of the State’s greenhouse gas emissions. In response to this challenge, we are determined to lead by example in reducing the carbon footprint of our bus mass transit system.
Our policy is driven by our mission statement: “To provide Smart and Sustainable Bus Transportation Solutions to meet the needs of a Modern City.”
This mission underpins our commitment to creating a transportation system that is not only efficient and reliable but also sustainable and resilient.
Carbon emission is the emission of CO2 from burning fossil fuels. It is considered pollution because of the negative impact this gas has on the planet. It absorbs heat in the form of infrared radiation, so it works like glass in a greenhouse.
Instead of that heat radiating away from the planet, it gets trapped in our atmosphere, warming the Earth.
“As our atmosphere warms, our climate changes, that is why we are seeing more severe storms, drought, and changing sea levels. The primary aim of every Environmental Impact Assessment report is to reduce carbon emissions”.
Burning fossil fuels like gasoline and diesel releases carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere. Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from transportation account for about 48 percent of total greenhouse gas emissions in Nigeria, making it the largest contributor of carbon emissions.
Our vehicles are a major cause of global warming.
Collectively, cars and trucks account for more than a quarter of all emissions in Nigeria, emitting around 24 pounds of carbon dioxide and other global-warming gases for every gallon of fuel. Another 25% comes from the extraction, production, and delivery of the fuel, while the great bulk of heat-trapping emissions, more than 19 % per litre, come right out of a car’s exhaust pipe.
In total, the Nigerian transportation sector, including cars, trucks, planes, trains, ships, and freight, produces nearly 50% of all Nigeria’s emissions, more than almost any other sector.
Ogwo further gave insights into how the Management is deploying administrative finesse to implement far reaching policies that guarantees seamless operations and its sustainability in the challenging world of transport management. Some of the elements of the Sustainability Policy of the LBSL are:
Environmental Stewardship
He said there is a definite aim to achieve a carbon neutral status across all their assets by 2035, which according to him will be pursued through the adoption of cleaner technologies such as Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and electric buses, advanced route optimization, and the reduction of unnecessary emissions from dead mileage and idling.
“Our waste management strategies will ensure efficient resource utilization and adherence to environmental regulations, including the recycling of hazardous wastes and conservation of water resources in vehicle maintenance.”
Social Responsibility
“We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce, ensuring compliance with labour and employment laws, and providing comprehensive training programs on sustainability practices”.
Enhancing service quality is also a priority, with initiatives aimed at improving passenger comfort and accessibility, especially for underserved and low-income communities.
Governance and Transparency
Adhering to global reporting standards such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), we will ensure transparency and accountability in our operations.
Our governance framework includes rigorous risk management strategies, ethical leadership, and robust vendor management practices to maintain the highest standards of integrity and trust.
Implementation and Monitoring
The successful implementation of this policy will require meticulous planning, phased execution, and continuous review. We have outlined specific objectives and goals,
Set Clear Timelines, Establish A Framework For Regular Monitoring And Reporting
Our Board of Directors will oversee the long-term operational plan, ensuring it remains relevant and effective in addressing emerging sustainability challenges. Additionally, we will allocate at least 5% of our revenue to business continuity and sustainable plans, demonstrating our financial commitment to these initiatives.
Community Engagement and Collaboration
We recognize the importance of community engagement and will actively educate the public on the benefits of sustainable public transportation. Collaboration with local authorities like LAMATA and community planning bodies will be pivotal in aligning our infrastructure development with broader urban sustainability goals.
He concluded by stressing that the Sustainability Policy represents a significant milestone in their journey towards a greener and more sustainable future, saying, “by integrating environmental, social, and governance principles into every aspect of our operations, we are not only enhancing the quality of our services but also contributing to the overall well-being of our dear Lagos State and Nigeria at large.
“We invite all stakeholders to join us in this important endeavour, as we work together to build a more sustainable and prosperous Lagos.”
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