Standard Chartered Bank marks Environment Day with beach clean-up
Dar es Salaam. Standard Chartered Bank Tanzania has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental conservation by hosting its annual beach clean-up at Rungwe Beach in Dar es Salaam, in partnership with the environmental advocacy group Nipe Fagio.
The clean-up, held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, brought together more than 70 bank employees and their families, who joined hands to collect nearly 100 bags of plastic and non-biodegradable waste — estimated at around one tonne — from the shoreline.
The initiative, a flagship part of the bank’s sustainability and community engagement strategy, was held in celebration of World Environment Day. It also forms part of Standard Chartered’s broader “Here for Good” brand promise, with a strong focus on reducing environmental impact and promoting climate action.
"This is more than just a clean-up — it is a call to action," said Standard Chartered Bank Tanzania CEO. "Every piece of trash we remove is a reminder of the responsibility we have as individuals and institutions to care for the planet."
The bank has held this annual volunteering exercise for several years, each time selecting a different beach to highlight the importance of preserving Tanzania’s natural coastal ecosystems.
According to the organisers, this year’s activity not only resulted in the removal of significant waste from the beach but also served as a platform to raise awareness on the growing issue of plastic pollution and the need for stronger environmental stewardship.
The effort reflects Standard Chartered Group’s global sustainability agenda, which is built on three core pillars: Sustainable Finance, Being a Responsible Company, and Supporting Inclusive Communities. Locally, the bank continues to align its operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
Beyond clean-up campaigns, Standard Chartered Bank Tanzania has undertaken other green initiatives including adopting energy-efficient office practices, rolling out waste management strategies, and financing projects that support inclusive, sustainable development.
The bank’s partnership with Nipe Fagio — Swahili for “Give Me the Broom” — has been instrumental in mobilising local communities and building a culture of environmental responsibility across the city.
As plastic pollution continues to choke coastlines and marine life globally, efforts like this are seen as vital steps in fostering collective responsibility and action.
“The work doesn’t end here,” said a Nipe Fagio representative. “We need ongoing partnerships, policy action, and public awareness to protect our oceans and secure a sustainable future.”
