Škoda Auto Demonstrates Dedication to Biodiversity Conservation with Global Sustainability Projects

Škoda Auto Demonstrates Dedication to Biodiversity Conservation with Global Sustainability Projects

(IN BRIEF) Škoda Auto demonstrates its commitment to biodiversity on the International Day for Biological Diversity by highlighting various initiatives and projects at its global production sites. These efforts include planting over 70,000 trees in 2023, conducting dendrological research and inventory, launching the Krakonoš Gardens funding initiative, providing shelter for endangered peregrine falcons, involving employees in sustainability initiatives, and committing to biodiversity preservation at Indian plants. Škoda Auto’s comprehensive approach to sustainability aligns with its GreenFuture strategy and aims to minimize its environmental impact.

(PRESS RELEASE) MLADÁ BOLESLAV, 22-May-2023 — /EuropaWire/ — ŠKODA AUTO, one of the world’s oldest car makers and Czech Republic largest private company part of Volkswagen Group, is proud to mark the International Day for Biological Diversity by showcasing its extensive measures and projects aimed at supporting biodiversity preservation at its production sites worldwide. With active involvement from its employees, Škoda Auto integrates sustainability commitments throughout its value chain under the comprehensive GreenFuture strategy.

“As an international car manufacturer, Škoda Auto is keenly aware of its environmental responsibilities. Further minimising the ecological impact of our business activities is and will remain a crucial aspect of our corporate strategy. At our sites around the world, we are fully committed to preserving and restoring biodiversity – even beyond our factory gates. Employee engagement is key and plays a central role in this; every year Škodians launch projects together and help protect our environment over the long term.” – Michael Oeljeklaus, Škoda Auto Board Member for Production and Logistics.

Planting Over 70,000 Trees in 2023
As part of its long-standing initiative, Škoda Auto has been planting one sapling for every vehicle delivered to customers in the Czech Republic since 2007. Surpassing the remarkable milestone of one million trees in 2021, this year alone will witness the addition of over 70,000 new trees. These trees play a crucial role in water retention, erosion prevention, and contribute to biodiversity and ecosystem balance. The Partnership Foundation collaborates with Škoda Auto to offer a funding program, enabling cities, municipalities, non-profit organizations, schools, national parks, and other institutions across the country to apply for support in implementing their projects. While the receiving organizations purchase the seedlings, Škoda Auto covers the costs and actively participates in their care.

Dendrological Research and Inventory
Since 2010, Škoda Auto has conducted annual dendrological research spanning two to three months during the summer and autumn seasons. This comprehensive survey results in an inventory of more than 1,200 tree species and over 460 shrub groups within a 24,000 m² area. Parameters such as genus, species, trunk circumference, height, physiological age, and others are meticulously monitored and recorded.

Introducing Krakonoš Gardens – A New Initiative
The Škoda Auto Endowment Fund launches the Krakonoš Gardens funding initiative this year in collaboration with the Škoda Auto Brand Management department and Volkswagen Financial Services. The program, overseen by the Krkonoše National Park, focuses on protecting nature and promoting biodiversity in specific environments and locations. Eligible recipients, including towns, local governments, and organizations, can receive grants of up to 250,000 Czech crowns to support their biodiversity projects.

Providing Shelter for Endangered Peregrine Falcons
Škoda Auto proudly announces the return of a pair of endangered peregrine falcons to the chimney of the Ško-Energo thermal power plant in Mladá Boleslav. In early March, the falcon box, installed at a height of 168 meters, welcomed the birds back. The falcons have successfully raised 21 chicks in the brooder to date, and their activities can be observed through an online camera.

Active Involvement of Škoda Employees in Sustainability Initiatives
Škoda Auto recognizes the indispensable role its employees play in preserving biodiversity and protecting the environment. In the ‘Škoda Trees’ program, the workforce played a vital role in reforesting the tornado-hit community of Hrušky in southern Moravia last year. Additionally, around 300 employees and their families actively participate in the annual ‘Clean Up Czechia’ campaign, covering Škoda Auto’s three Czech sites.

Commitment to Biodiversity around Indian Plants
As a signatory to the India Business and Biodiversity Initiative (IBBI), Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Pvt. Ltd. (SAVWIPL) remains steadfast in its commitment to protect biodiversity through various projects. The Pune site, spanning 500 hectares, provides habitat for over 340 plant, tree, and animal species. A dedicated butterfly and bee garden supports the ecosystem by providing sustenance and shelter. The Aurangabad plant boasts an ‘Oxygen Park’ and ‘Green Hub’

Media contact:

Ariane Kilian
Head of Communications
e: ariane.kilian@skoda-auto.cz
t: +420 326 811 778

SOURCE: Škoda Auto a.s.