FHCL, BAT Plant 5,000 Trees for Forest Day
In celebration of this year’s International Day of Forests (IDOF), Fiji Hardwood Corporation Limited (FHCL) and British American Tobacco (BAT) marked another milestone in their joint environmental initiative by planting 5,000 pine seedlings on Friday, April 4, 2025 at their reforestation site in Nausori Highlands. This effort expanded their pine and mahogany plantations by an additional 4.5 hectares, bringing the total to 10.5 hectares since their partnership began.
The FHCL-BAT partnership, established in 2023, is rooted in a shared commitment to reforestation, environmental sustainability, and land restoration. In their first year, the two companies successfully developed a 6-hectare mahogany plot, laying the groundwork for continued growth and impact. This year BAT raised 5,000 pine seedlings at their nursery and donated them for the replanting during the IDOF celebration at Nausori Highlands.
BAT has embraced green energy solutions in recent years, moving away from fossil fuels and promoting environmentally responsible practices. Through its collaboration with FHCL, the company has been actively involved in replanting harvested areas, contributing to the reforestation of degraded land and the conservation of natural resources.
FHCL General Manager Semi Dranibaka emphasized the broader significance of the initiative, stating,
“Every tree we plant today is an investment in tomorrow. It’s about bringing life back to the land and showing that with the right partnerships, we can make a real difference for our environment and our communities.”
The planting event saw enthusiastic participation from both FHCL and BAT employees, reinforcing a shared sense of purpose and collective action. Through hands-on involvement, participants strengthened their connection to environmental stewardship while contributing directly to forest restoration efforts.
This initiative reflects the ongoing dedication of both companies to corporate social responsibility, climate action, and ecological resilience. FHCL and BAT remain committed to expanding green spaces and investing in afforestation projects that safeguard the environment and promote long-term sustainability.
The IDOF celebration was also attended by the landowning unit members of Nausori Highlands, the students of Ratu Nalewavada Public School who were glad to participate in the celebration contributing to the increasing forest cover on the degraded forest in their land.