Corporate Social Responsibility

Croton Motors — Corporate Social Responsibility

Corporate Social Responsibility

"My little thing is planting trees". Prof Wangari Maathai, 2004 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate.

When thinking about what cause to champion outside of our normal business, planting trees came easily to us. Our MD, Francis, grew up in the fringes of the Aberdare Forest. His fondest childhood memories are of afternoons spent climbing tall Cyprus and Meru Oak trees, swinging from branch to branch and finally jumping into the clear river below. Snack time would include a mix of wild berries, plums, pears, or passion fruit, depending on what was in season.

He remembers joining his father as he tirelessly planted more and more trees. At the time, it seemed like aimless work to the young boy, precious time away from play. But unbeknownst to him, a spark was being lit, one that would drive him to obsessively plant trees whenever he got a chance.

Also, we are named after a tree- so, really, we did not have any choice, did we?

Croton Megalocarpus

'Mukinduri'

The Croton tree is indigenous to Kenya. It grows fast, reaching maturity in 5-7 years, and is drought resistant.

"The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now" Chinese Proverb

But really, why trees?

We need not be reminded of the importance of planting trees. Kenya, and the world in general is facing increased risks due to climate change. Kenya has faced recurrent drought since 2016, leading to a drop in crop production and livestock losses. Poor crop and livestock production means loss of livelihood for farmers, as well increased food prices. Pastoralists for instance have to travel longer distances to find water and pasture, which can lead to conflict among communities. Lack of safe water can also lead to a decrease in sanitation, increasing disease.

In December 2022, President William Ruto launched a national tree restoration campaign whose goal is to plant 15 billion trees in various parts of Kenya by 2032. The president believes that reversing deforestation will help combat climate change which has exacerbated drought, flooding, disease and pest outbreaks among other calamities such as habitat loss for animals and soil erosion.

The motor vehicle industry produces its fair share of C02, a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Studies done by the European Parliament show that 'transport is the only sector where greenhouse gas emissions have increased in the past three decades, rising 33.5% between 1990 and 2019'. Closer home, a quarter of Kenya's emissions come from the transport and energy sectors.

Increasing tree cover can significantly reduce harmful gases in the environment. Aside from combating climate change, trees are essential for the provision of oxygen, stabilization of soil, conservation of water, regulation of temperature extremes as well as increasing wildlife habitat.

Therefore, at Croton Motors, we are committed to doing our part to contribute to the national agenda of planting trees, and by doing our 'little thing' help combat climate change.

"The true meaning of life is to plant trees in whose shade you do not expect to sit" Nelson Henderson

The trees we plant

Croton Tree is widely appreciated for its sustainability and versatility, supporting both environmental conservation and local economies. Its seeds are highly valued for biofuel production, as they are rich in oil suitable for biodiesel. The tree provides shade, improves soil fertility, and helps prevent erosion, making it valuable in agroforestry. The wood is used as fuel, and the tree also serves as a source of fodder, bee forage, and even traditional medicines.

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Croton

''Croton Megalocarpus'

Croton Tree is widely appreciated for its sustainability and versatility, supporting both environmental conservation and local economies. Its seeds are highly valued for biofuelproduction, as they are rich in oil suitable for biodiesel. The tree provides shade, improves soil fertility, and helps prevent erosion, making it valuable in agroforestry. The wood is used as fuel, and the tree also serves as a source of fodder, bee forage, and even traditional medicines.

Kikuyu Mukinduri Kalenjin Kelelwet Kamba Muthulu Embu Mukinduri Kisii Omosocho

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Meru Oak

Vitex keniensis

Meru oak wood is known for its hardness and durability, with a close resemblance to teak. It is frequently used in furniture-making and decorative veneers, as well as for firewood, general timber, and beams. Due to its highly sought-after qualities, however, the species has been extensively overharvested and is now very scarce.

Kikuyu Muhuru Kalenjin Mulkelwet Kamba Muu Embu Muburu Kisii Mutahuru

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Podo Tree

Podocarpus falcatus

The high-quality, lightweight wood is extensively used in making furniture, wall paneling, shelves, drawer interiors, shop counters, and for railway sleepers that require lighter materials. Its lack of odor and taste makes it especially suitable for food storage, and it is the preferred choice for locally made butter and cheese boxes, as well as other food containers.

Kikuyu Muthengera Kalenjin Saptet Kamba Muvengea

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African Olive Tree

Olea europaea subsp. Africana

This tree is highly valued for its resilience, ecological importance, and historical uses across the regions it inhabits. The dense and durable wood of the African olive is used in making furniture, carving, and other artisanal items. Its hardness and distinctive grain make it sought after for decorative purposes. In traditional African medicine, various parts of the African olive tree, including leaves and bark, are used to treat ailments like colds, fevers, sore throats, and digestive issues.

Kikuyu Mutamaiyu Kalenjin Emitiot Kamba Muthaiga Embu Muthithi Kisii Olkiriti

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African Prune

Prunus Africana

Native to the Nyandarua Ranges (renamed the Aberdare Ranges by the British), the Prunus africana, or African prune is now recognized for its medicinal properties, including treatments for prostate cancer. It's also called Red stinkwood. The tree's crushed leaves and its dense, dark red wood, which was once commonly used for furniture, emit a scent similar to bitter almonds. Although its fruit is toxic, the tree itself has high medicinal value. This species is increasingly rare in the wild, yet it has become popular in agroforestry and reforestation efforts. Products derived from the tree require a license for export.

Kikuyu Muiri Kalenjin Tenduet Kamba Mumbaume Kisii Omoiri

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Moringa Tree

Moringa Oleifera

Often called a superfood or "miraculous tree," Naturalized in Kenya, Moringa is a deciduous tree that grows up to 10 meters, with pale, feathery leaves and drooping branches. The tree is a source of livestock fodder, bee forage, and shade, and is also used as a windbreak. Moringa's fiber, tannins, and live-fence capability enhance its value, and powdered seeds are used for water purification. Its roots, often used as a spice, serve as a horseradish or mustard substitute.

Kikuyu Muringa Kalenjin Saget Kamba Muzungwi Embu Muringa Kisii Amaua amaroro

"If you don't know your trees, you might be barking up the wrong one!"

How does it work?

Our CSR agenda works in three main ways:

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For every vehicle purchase we give you trees to plant

The premise is actually quite simple. For every car we sell, we commit to giving the buyer 12 seedlings to plant in an area of their choice around the country. As much as possible, we will try to match the area with local indigenous trees to ensure that they grow well.

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We donate trees in your name

In the case that one may not be in a position to plant trees directly, we will donate the same number of seedlings to a partner or a cause.

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Partner with an entity to promote tree planting

Croton Motors seeks to work with like-minded partners and organizations that are committed to reforestation initiatives.

Cars we've sent off — with trees to match

A look at some of the vehicles we've handed over, and the seedlings that went with them. Drop your own photos and video clips into the slots below.

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Growing Our Impact: Trees Donated for a Greener Tomorrow

Our tree donation initiative is at giving back to the community and fostering a greener, healthier environment. Each year, the number of trees we've donated has grown, reflecting both our dedication to environmental preservation and the positive response from our team and partners. We are proud to continue this journey, making a meaningful difference, tree by tree.

Tree Sales Chart

Explore the growth of our green impact over the years!