Nature and biodiversity
We recognise that we have a responsibility to protect nature and biodiversity, and we aim to use the power of digital technologies support conservation efforts across the globe.
The world is currently undergoing a dangerous decline in nature, with one million species at risk of extinction, affecting billions of people and economies globally. We all have a responsibility to address this crisis and to ensure that ecosystems across the globe are preserved. At Vodafone, we understand that our activities can impact nature, and we seek to protect nature and biodiversity through responsible management.
We also that believe that digital technology can play a decisive role in this space. It empowers us to take decisive actions to protect, manage, and restore nature. By leveraging cutting-edge tech solutions, we aim to demonstrate the potential of using digital technologies to address nature and biodiversity challenges.
Managing the impact of our business
As a global business operating across geographies, we recognise that Vodafone has impacts, risks and dependencies on nature and biodiversity. For example, we use water in our direct operations to manage our properties and our connectivity infrastructure, and in our value chain during the manufacturing of devices. We manage these impacts responsibly through internal policies and engagement with key suppliers.
This year, we conducted an analysis of our operations and supply chain to understand where these key impacts, risks and dependencies lie in our value chain, and how they affect nature and biodiversity. We seek to use these findings to foster change within Vodafone and to protect nature and biodiversity through responsible management and digital technologies. We aim to further engage with strategic partners and suppliers to further integrate considerations of nature and biodiversity into our business practices.
Storks stranded
When engineers in Germany found two young and abandoned storks stranded at the top of our masts, they put together an operation to rescue the birds and bring them to safety. The storks were then taken to a rescue centre in Kessel, where professionals were able to restore them back to health. The storks have now been released back into nature and are restoring the ecosystem of the region.
Leveraging the power of technology
We are taking action across our markets to apply digital technologies to tackle nature and biodiversity challenges. Through these technological applications, we aim to demonstrate the power that technology can have in addressing challenges such as resource management, interactions between humans and species and the protection of our ecosystems.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a field of computer science that focuses on the development of smart machines or technologies capable of performing tasks that normally require a human brain. When applied to nature and biodiversity challenges, AI can become a powerful tool.
Addressing the human-wildlife conflict with AI
Vodafone is the creator of mTwiga, a digital technology solution for preventing human-wildlife conflict. mTwiga uses cameras with advanced video analytics and AI-enabled software to recognise predator species (such as leopard, hyena and lion) within close proximity to human settlements. This technology is able to send real-time alerts to communities and rangers and is designed to operate off-grid.
Using an AI-based warning system to protect whales in South Africa
In South Africa, Vodacom has created an AI-based technology solution to use cameras and hydrophones to identify and alert mussel farmers to the presence of marine mammals including whales in order to prevent entanglement in mussel farming ropes.
Creating partnerships
Our three-year partnership with WWF, which began in November 2022, aims to leverage technology to mitigate environmental impacts and promote more sustainable choices. By joining forces, Vodafone and WWF are promoting a shift towards a more sustainable circular economy, emphasizing the importance of reusing, recycling, and reducing waste.
Since September 2024, more than half a million unwanted phones have been collected. Each phone generates £1 towards WWF conservation projects worldwide, addressing the climate and nature crisis. Funds from this initiative are helping to find solutions to ensure future generations have a world with thriving habitats and wildlife.
Find out more about other partnerships across our markets:
Vodacom DRC's partnership with Kongo River
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, Vodacom partnered with stakeholders in Congo Brazzaville to address plastic pollution in the Kongo River. During science day, Vodacom worked with students to analyse the chemical composition of the Congo River including flora and fauna. They also raised awareness among local fishermen of plastic pollution and incentivised them to collect plastic waste from the river and sell them to create an income.
113 Cyclists embark on an epic 1,846KM Vodacom Twende Butiama cycling tour across 12 regions for social impact.
In Tanzania, Vodacom ran a campaign with the Twende Butiama Bicycle Club to engage local communities in nature restoration actions. The campaign included a Twende Butiama Cycling Tour, which covered over 1500 kilometers across 12 regions. As part of the cycling tour, 30 000 trees were planted, with an additional 55 000 trees planted in schools. Additionally, participants engaged in climate action campaigns, improved learning environments, and supported inclusive healthcare through community medical camps. As a result, Vodacom donated 1500 desks to schools made out of recycled materials and established environmental clubs in 6 of the 18 schools visited.
Vodafone and UK National Parks partnership uses AI technology to help connect people with nature and protect it for the future
Vodafone and UK National Parks partnership uses AI technology to help connect people with nature and protect it for the future. Cutting-edge technology will be used to help protect ecosystems, engage local communities, and support the future of UK National Parks.
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