Daimler Truck & Bus Romania participates in reforestation program

By planting 2,378 seedlings, representing the total number of new trucks, buses, and coaches from Daimler Truck AG's portfolio registered in Romania in 2023, the local subsidiary contributes to restoring the forest circuit of an unproductive area on the shore of Lake Hagiești, which will act as a shield to defend the commune against extreme phenomena.

As in previous years, the initiative has been supported by the employees of Daimler Truck & Bus Romania, who participated in the volunteer action on April 6, alongside employees from other partner companies involved in the reforestation effort in Sinesti.

"Although our company is in its fourth planting session, this year we decided to join a broader event organized by the Children's Forest Association and several companies from Bucharest. We are convinced that only through a collective effort can we have a significant role in addressing environmental challenges and building a better future for future generations. Thus, we have all managed to reforest an impressive area in record time, proving that 'where there are many, strength increases'. As always, I am delighted with the involvement of my colleagues who eagerly await, every year, the planting action that has already become a tradition in our company, thus proving that sustainability is not just a business model, but a solid component of each of our lives. Last but not least, this event aligns with the actions that strengthen Daimler Truck AG's policy of reducing climate impact, and we are pleased to contribute to this beloved project, initiated with the desire to protect the environment," said Valeriu Zaharia, CEO of Daimler Truck & Bus Romania.

The 30 hectares of land in the commune of Sinești have been afforested with locust trees, known for their rapid growth and branching even in improper conditions, playing a crucial role in environmental protection. By planting these trees, the company aims not only to offset the carbon footprint but also to contribute to improving biodiversity, soil quality, and local ecosystems. Among the positive effects of afforestation with locust trees are mentioned stabilizing shifting sands, consolidating slopes, protecting crops, and correcting torrents during summer rains.

Climate change is the greatest challenge of our time. To combat it, we must drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions. According to a study by the International Energy Agency, road traffic accounts for 7.7 gigatons of global CO2 emissions.

As a manufacturer of commercial vehicles, Daimler Truck AG takes responsibility by constantly pursuing the decarbonization of its portfolio of trucks, buses, and coaches. Thus, the Daimler Truck AG group aims to produce only carbon-neutral vehicles in key markets in Europe, North America, and Japan by 2039, and globally by 2050. To achieve this goal, the group is pursuing four strategies:

Alternative propulsion technologies: electric batteries and hydrogen fuel cells. Daimler Truck AG's portfolio already includes ten models of electric trucks and buses. As for hydrogen, we are in the intensive testing phase of prototypes on public roads in Germany and the rest of Europe.

• Expansion of charging infrastructure: Daimler Truck AG, along with strong partners such as Siemens, Shell, TotalEnergies, and BP, supports the expansion of charging infrastructure for CO2-neutral transportation - both for battery-electric vehicles and hydrogen-powered vehicles. The group also participates in several initiatives aimed at providing charging technologies globally and increasing the availability of liquid hydrogen at gas stations.
• Natural resources: During vehicle development, we prioritize recycled materials and those with the longest possible lifecycle. Efficient technology and aerodynamic, lightweight design allow us to reduce the energy or fuel consumption of our vehicles throughout their operational period. To further avoid waste, we strive to extend the lifespan of all vehicle components, for example, by using highly durable materials. Additionally, our vehicles are equipped only with recyclable and reusable batteries.
• Life cycle assessment of vehicles as a holistic approach: Our trucks and buses are investigated throughout their lifecycle - from the supply chain of raw materials, and the production process, to how they are operated by our customers, to identify potential improvements.