Cellular network operator Vodacom said Tuesday that it was one of the few GSM operators in the world to receive the international ISO 14001 environmental management certification.
"Given the geographic extent of Vodacom`s operations and the competitive nature of our industry, we have a duty to ensure that we are protecting the quality of the natural environment, while offering the benefits of cellular technology," said Joan Joffe, group executive - corporate affairs.
"With this certification, Vodacom publicly commits itself to minimising adverse impacts on the environment in which we operate", she added.
Joffe went on: "The certification is the culmination of Vodacom`s environmental management system (EMS) that was put into place in 1997. The EMS applies good business management principles to environmental issues because Vodacom recognises that as the best way to sustain development."
One of the most visible impacts Vodacom has on the environment, is the construction of base stations.
"Our environmental system ensures that sites are constructed to strict environmental standards and guidelines.
"These include an environmental checklist, which takes into consideration issues such as the effect on vegetation, the identification of sensitive vegetation, and of historically and archeaologically important sites, and the visual impact of masts.
"One of the most successful results of this approach is the camouflaging of base stations, in which Vodacom has become a world leader. We currently have base stations disguised as palm trees (44), cypress trees (10), pine trees (39), a lighthouse, windmills (2) and a dried Leadwood tree," said Joffe. [From E-data]
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