Hellenic Bank is doing its part for a greener Cyprus, in recognition of the important role that all must play in the restoration of the ecosystem. On the initiative of the Commissioner for the Environment, and in cooperation with the Cyprus Forest Association and the Forestry Department, Hellenic is undertaking a tree-planting initiative in the National Forest Park of Cape Greco.
The action is part of the Bank’s ESG strategy and involves the planting of 400 trees and the construction of 100 linear metres of dry stone walls, as well as planting of rare flora in the Cape Greco area. The planting will be carried out by the Bank’s volunteer team under the guidance of the Cyprus Forest Association. The maintenance of the project will then be carried out by the Forestry Department, which is responsible for the management of the Forest Park.
Commissioner for the Environment and Animal Welfare Antonia Theodosiou, thanked Hellenic Bank for the initiative, financing and execution of the project, as well as for its long-standing environmental activity. “Our common goal, through synergies and innovative practices, is to promote sustainability, sustainability and corporate social responsibility, in alignment with the goals of achieving climate neutrality and protecting the natural environment,” she said.
Through the adoption of ESG criteria, the financial sector can play a key role in the green transition towards a more sustainable economic and environmental model, she added. “The action is not just about planting trees, but is a holistic, multi-level initiative in the context of environmental sustainability, contributing to global environmental goals and human well-being and sustainable development, and aligned with the recent EU Directive on Nature Restoration, which addresses the restoration of degraded ecosystems.”
For his part, Hellenic’s Head of Corporate Communication and Identity George Slavos underlined that the Bank actively invests in environmental actions, channeling significant funds and energy, recognising the link between economic growth and environmental protection. “This action improves biodiversity and contributes to reducing the impact of climate change, while enhancing the aesthetic and environmental value of the area,” he said. He went on to say that the initiative was further proof that the private sector and environmental and governmental agencies could work together for the common good. “It is the duty of all to make environmental awareness a way of life, and to work together for a green and sustainable future,” he noted.
Finally, Takis Papachristoforou, Secretary of the Cyprus Forest Association, elaborated on the initiative’s timeline and its importance for the restoration of the area’s natural environment.
