Bridgestone South Africa’s green initiatives for sustainable communities are making a tangible impact, partnering with Food & Trees for Africa (FTFA) to address food insecurity and environmental degradation across the country. Through Bridgestone South Africa’s green initiatives for sustainable communities, FTFA is planting trees, establishing food gardens, and empowering communities to thrive sustainably.
Boosting Food Security and Community Upliftment
As part of this collaboration, Bridgestone is funding three new food gardens in vulnerable communities. These gardens are designed to provide a reliable source of fresh, nutritious produce while promoting local self-sufficiency. Community members in Cape Town and Bloemfontein will take part in volunteer days to plant and cultivate these gardens, with Bridgestone employees working alongside them. This initiative supports efforts to combat hunger while also encouraging skills development and ownership in food production.
The start of a permaculture food garden at Atang Primary School
A flourishing food garden growing abundantly at Soneike High School
Driving Environmental Restoration
Bridgestone’s commitment to offsetting their carbon footprint is reflected in its contribution of 500 trees, distributed to various community organisations, schools, clinics and care facilities sustainably selected by FTFA. These trees are currently being planted in various communities nationwide following a volunteer day that took place in Johannesburg. The tree-planting initiative aims to promote biodiversity, reduce carbon emissions, and create greener, more livable spaces in urban and rural areas alike.
Greening Homes in Pretoria North
In addition to the food gardens and national tree distribution, Bridgestone is supporting FTFA in distributing additional trees to homes in degraded areas throughout October. This initiative will begin with the planting of 500 trees in Pretoria North, bringing vital green infrastructure to an area in need. The trees will enhance the local environment, improve air quality, and contribute to social cohesion in the community as well as long-term sustainability.
“This partnership is the start of sustainable community development,” says Robyn Hills, Head of Programmes at FTFA. “Together, we’re tackling two of South Africa’s most pressing challenges: food insecurity and environmental degradation.”
Creating a Lasting Legacy
Bridgestone’s ongoing partnership with FTFA is more than just a corporate social responsibility initiative; it’s a strategic effort to build healthier, more resilient communities. By integrating food security programs with environmental greening efforts, the collaboration is helping to create a sustainable future where people and the planet can flourish together.
“Through this partnership, Bridgestone is committed to supporting both environmental conservation and social upliftment,” said Chantel Baxter of Bridgestone South Africa. “We are proud to work with Food & Trees for Africa in providing communities with the resources they need to grow and thrive.”
Trees for every home help create green corridors in underresourced areas
Community members receive one fruit tree and one indigenous tree for their homes
Evaluations of trees previously planted indicate excellent growth
About Food & Trees for Africa
Food & Trees for Africa (FTFA) is a social and environmental organisation focused on addressing food security and environmental restoration through urban greening, environmental education, and sustainable agriculture programs.
About Bridgestone South Africa
Bridgestone South Africa is a leading tire manufacturer, dedicated to driving positive change through sustainability initiatives that benefit both people and the environment.
