VW

Kariega – Taking another step on the Volkswagen Group Africa journey of environmental sustainability, 250 employees and loved-ones gathered on Saturday 23 November at the Van Stadens Wildflower Reserve. At this 600-hectare reserve just outside Gqeberha, these volunteers gave their time to promote biodiversity as part of VWGA’s Show of Hands initiative.

The event, hosted by the Volkswagen Community Trust, brought together the team in support of biodiversity, one of the core priorities of VWGA’s environmental strategy.

The day’s activities were diverse, with participants working collectively to remove invasive plant species that threaten the local ecosystem, plant indigenous plants to help restore the region’s natural flora, and create a beautiful new picnic area for future visitors. In addition, the company installed water tanks to improve water conservation in the area.

This Show of Hands – the 37th volunteer event hosted by the Community Trust – is one of the ways in which VWGA demonstrates its long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship and community involvement. Each year, employees and their loved ones are given the opportunity to connect with nature while actively contributing to the cause of preserving it for future generations.

Martina Biene, Chairperson and Managing Director of VWGA, expressed the company’s pride in such a collaborative event, stating: “Environmental sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at VWGA. Today’s event not only reflects our dedication to protecting the environment but also highlights the importance of community engagement. It’s encouraging to see so many employees and their loved-ones come together, working hand in hand to safeguard the future of our region’s biodiversity.”

The success of the Show of Hands event further reinforces VWGA’s commitment to sustainability and its ongoing role in fostering positive environmental change. As the company continues to pursue its environmental goals, VWGA remains dedicated to taking actionable steps toward protecting and preserving the planet’s most valuable natural resources.

KARIEGA – For 35 years, the Volkswagen Community Trust has been at the heart of change in the lives of thousands of individuals. What began in 1989 as a humble effort to support communities around Kariega has grown into a beacon of hope for many in need. For Volkswagen Group Africa, this has always been more than just a corporate responsibility; it’s about people, and about the belief that a future filled with opportunity and promise is within reach.

The impact of the Trust and its range of initiatives has been significant to say the least. Since 1994, the Trust has invested over R570 million in CSI projects. Of this amount, 84% has been allocated to initiatives that focus on education, youth development, and community wellbeing. This dedication of upliftment is clearly demonstrated through projects such as the Ikhwezi Lomso Early Childhood Development Centre, which opened in 2011 in Kariega and has benefited 1 202 children to date.

One of the most impactful projects under the Community Trust’s umbrella is the loveLife Y-Centre in Kariega, which was built in 2012 with an initial investment of R20 million. Since then, the centre has touched the lives of 350 000 young people through its various programmes and offerings.

Volkswagen Group Africa employees have been pivotal in contributing to these efforts. A total of 2 186 employees make a voluntary financial contribution to CSI projects every month, with their donations helping to sustain and expand critical initiatives. With 38 Show of Hands employee events since 2011, our employees have rolled up their sleeves to personally invest in the wellbeing of our communities.

One of the most impactful programmes launched is the Legacy Literacy programme, started in 2015, which has already helped 6 854 children. The programme aims to eradicate illiteracy among learners under the age of 10 years, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed academically and in life.

In addition to supporting education and youth development, the Community Trust has also partnered with NGOs to extend its reach. Since 1994, an estimated R70-million has been invested in support of external NGO partners.

“As we look back on 35 years of the Volkswagen Community Trust, we aren’t just celebrating the projects we’ve accomplished or the funds we’ve invested,” said Nonkqubela Maliza, VWGA Corporate and Government Affairs Director. “The true cause for celebration is the lives we have touched, the people we have empowered and the voices we have amplified. When we started the Trust, we built it on the belief that we had both the power and the responsibility to have a lasting legacy in our communities, and with this belief we will continue our efforts for years to come.”

KARIEGA – Volkswagen Group Africa has added an additional 3 megawatt (MW) solar power to its grid, bringing the total output of renewable energy to 5.9 MW. This is enough energy to power at least 2 000 two-bedroom houses fitted with geysers and using electrical appliances.

The total number of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels across the company now stands at 12 097 of which 5 710 panels were recently installed in the employee car park. The first phase started two years ago with 3 030 panels on the Engine Plant roof and 3 136 panels on the Final Assembly building roof. More PV panels are planned to be installed during the next phase.

Volkswagen Group Africa has invested close to R100 million in solar energy to date. The renewable energy share at the company has increased from 1.5% in 2018 to 17.1% in 2023, which reduces the reliance on electricity supplied by the municipality. The combined solar energy capacity can save approximately 7 500 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions per year.

Ulrich Schwabe, Volkswagen Group Africa’s Production Director, said that the reduction in dependence on fossil fuels which is projected to reach 23% by 2025, highlights Plant Kariega’s goal to be a Zero Impact Factory by 2030. “Our efforts to reduce carbon emissions are in line with Volkswagen Group’s global Go To Zero Environmental Strategy, aimed at achieving carbon-neutrality which is aligned with the Paris Agreement. As a result, all Volkswagen Group plants are highly focused on decarbonisation, with renewable energy playing a key role in this effort,” said Schwabe.

He added that between 2010 and 2023, the electricity usage per vehicle manufactured has decreased by 54%. These were achieved through various initiatives such as an effective Demand Side Management plan. “We are consistently monitoring processes and influence mindsets towards energy consumption, such as air conditioner usage,” Schwabe added.

Energy usage reduction is one of several environmental indicators that paves Volkswagen’s way to zero impact. Since 2010, Plant Kariega’s environmental impact has improved by 57.7%, which includes reduction in energy consumption, water, waste, solvent and carbon emissions.