As global attention intensifies on climate change during World Environment Day 2026, British American Tobacco Nigeria (BATN) has announced it is deepening its climate action agenda, reporting a 100 percent transition from diesel to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) across its manufacturing operations.
The development was highlighted as part of activities marking the 2026 observance, which is being hosted by Azerbaijan under the theme “Climate Action” with renewed global calls for accelerated emissions reduction and sustainable energy transitions.
In a statement, BATN said climate action has become a core part of its operational strategy rather than a future ambition, stressing that sustainability is now integrated into its long-term manufacturing and business model. The company noted that environmental responsibility and industrial performance are increasingly interconnected in driving sustainable growth.
It disclosed that the complete shift from diesel to CNG marks a major milestone in its energy transition journey, adding that the move has eliminated diesel use across its manufacturing processes. According to the company, the transition has significantly reduced the carbon intensity of its operations while improving energy efficiency and strengthening operational resilience.
The firm further reported continued investment in renewable energy, including the installation of a 1.4-megawatt solar power system at its Ibadan factory. It described the facility as one of its most advanced manufacturing sites, noting that the solar deployment forms a key component of its broader clean energy strategy.
On environmental management, the company stated that it has achieved a 98.64 percent waste recycling rate since 2024, while maintaining a 100 percent zero-waste-to-landfill status at its Ibadan factory since 2021. It said these achievements reflect its commitment to circular economy principles and responsible resource use.
In addition, it highlighted progress in water stewardship, noting that its operations have retained full certification under the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) Standard since 2022. It added that investments in water efficiency and recycling technologies have led to a 42 percent reduction in freshwater withdrawal, surpassing its 35 percent target ahead of the 2030 deadline.
The company also pointed to the role of digital innovation in strengthening its sustainability performance, citing systems such as a Global Manufacturing System, an integrated Enterprise Data Platform, a Utility Monitoring System, and Smart Boiler technology as tools enabling real-time monitoring and improved energy optimisation.
Speaking on the occasion, Operations Director for West and Central Africa (WCA) of BATN, Hasnain Ishtaq, said that meaningful climate action must be backed by measurable investment and consistent implementation. He stated that sustainability has been embedded across all aspects of the company’s operations, from renewable energy adoption to circularity and water stewardship initiatives.
