There’s something about rain that makes you think about growing things.
As the world celebrates #EarthDay at a time when we have finally been blessed with the much awaited long rains; its more evident that climate change is real. Even the weather patterns we grew so accustomed to are not the same any more.
From our Geography lessons we all know the importance of growing trees. We were delighted to be invited to Oloo Lua Nature trail to be at the start of a substantial reforestation drive by Bolt and Seed Balls Kenya.
Seedballs Kenya; a company that has found a way to reuse the massive amount of charcoal waste we produce in the country will supply 25 tonnes of their certified seeds (over 11 million indigenous trees and unique grass species) that Bolt and other NGOs will plant in degraded areas across the country.
Due to the rains; the event space was moved from inside the nature trail to a suitably dry area where guests mingled over refreshments and got to have a feel of the actual seed balls they will be planting later. One of the founders, Teddy Kinyanjui passionately explained to us exactly how the seed balls work and why it’s a better way to use them in certain areas. Basically, especially for hard to reach places, rodents and nature elements may prevent the seeds from getting planted but the charcoal covering increases the chances of growth.
The event was also graced by Oloo Lua’s leadership team, Bolt’s Regional Manager and staff members, UNHCR and other NGOs.
Bolt’s Head of Sustainability, Natalia Gutiérrez, said: “Bolt is built on a culture of operating in the most efficient way possible and we apply those values in how we mitigate our own environmental impact. We have handpicked a select number of projects where we collaborate closely with NGOs and other partners on local initiatives that we are confident will maximise the positive impact we can have on the environment.
The leading on-demand transportation platform has up to date, neutralised the environmental footprint of over 4.5 billion kilometres of Bolt rides through other means such as launching e-bikes and electric cars.
After some quick speeches, it was time to get our hands dirty and start the seed balls throwing.
We can’t wait to go back in 5 years to see the difference we make. What’s even cooler is that there are apps to track the area and see how much tree coverage there will be in future.
You too can be part of this great initiative. Going somewhere today? Go with @bolt and they will buy 1 tree #seedball for every ride you make today! ????
Links
https://blog.bolt.eu/en/seedbolts/
https://www.seedballskenya.com/about-1
Written by: Leilah Namisango
