British American Tobacco (BAT) Kenya has set an impressive benchmark in sustainability and gender inclusivity, surpassing its environmental and social targets with notable achievements. The company’s recently published 2023 Sustainability Report reveals substantial progress in reducing its environmental impact and enhancing gender diversity within its ranks.
Environmental Milestones
BAT Kenya’s commitment to combating climate change is exemplified by its significant reduction in scope 1 and 2 emissions. In 2023, the company achieved a remarkable 54% reduction in these emissions, outstripping its 2030 target of a 50% reduction compared to 2020 levels. This milestone, reached seven years ahead of schedule, underscores BAT Kenya’s dedication to environmental stewardship. The achievement is the result of an accelerated decarbonisation strategy, including a substantial Sh145 million investment in solar energy between 2021 and 2022. This investment has led to the generation of 1,400-KwP of electricity on-site, further driving down the company’s carbon footprint.
Moreover, BAT Kenya has achieved a 62.5% reduction in water withdrawal, surpassing its 35% reduction target set for 2025 (against a 2017 baseline). This significant progress highlights the company’s effective water management practices and its commitment to minimizing environmental resource use.
Gender Inclusivity and Socio-Economic Development
In addition to its environmental achievements, BAT Kenya has made substantial strides in gender inclusivity. The company reported a 47% representation of women in senior leadership roles, exceeding its 45% target for 2025. This accomplishment is indicative of BAT Kenya’s ongoing efforts to promote diversity and equity within its organizational structure. Furthermore, the report notes that women across various job grades have seen increases in base salaries, reflecting the company’s dedication to fair compensation and gender equality.
BAT Kenya’s gender inclusivity efforts are part of a broader strategy to create a more equitable workplace. The company’s Rural Women Development Programme (RuwDep), launched with a Sh10 million investment, aims to empower over 1,600 women farmers in its tobacco supply chain, as well as the spouses of contracted male farmers. This initiative follows a successful pilot in 2022 and is a testament to BAT Kenya’s commitment to socio-economic development and gender equality in its supply chain.
The company has also focused on improving the livelihoods of its contracted tobacco farmers through the increased use of hybrid tobacco seeds. These seeds offer higher drought resistance and facilitate greater yields, contributing to improved incomes for farmers. Additionally, BAT Kenya has promoted food security by encouraging the cultivation of alternative subsistence crops, further supporting local communities.
Looking Ahead
Crispin Achola, Managing Director of BAT Kenya, highlighted the importance of transparency and stakeholder engagement in the company’s sustainability journey. “We remain focused on the transformation of our business, underpinned by our purpose to create A Better Tomorrow by Building a Smokeless World,” Achola stated. He expressed pride in the company’s achievements across various sustainability dimensions, including diversity, inclusion, and climate change.
Looking forward, BAT Kenya is committed to continuing its sustainability efforts and collaborating with stakeholders to drive further progress. The company’s achievements in 2023 set a high standard for environmental management and gender inclusivity, demonstrating its dedication to creating shared value and making a positive impact on society and the environment.
In summary, BAT Kenya’s 2023 Sustainability Report reflects a year of exceptional performance and progress. The company’s accomplishments in reducing emissions, managing water use, and advancing gender inclusivity underscore its role as a leader in corporate sustainability. As BAT Kenya moves forward, its ongoing efforts will undoubtedly contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future.
