Redcity Collabs with EZbike on YouTube to Uncover the world's Most Polluted Country in late 2024.
Ever wondered what country held the top spot as the world's most polluted country in late 2024? If you thought India or China, you'd be shocked to discover that’s not the case.
Although India held a top spot on the list, it was and still is the 3rd most polluted. China, on the other hand, had, over the years, made significant efforts to reduce its pollution impact and was no longer among the top 3.
In a recent YouTube video, Redcity partnered with EZbike to expose the country ranked the highest on the list.
It was discovered that by late 2024, Pakistan’s air pollution index reached an all time high of 71x above WHO standards, making it one of the highest recorded air pollution on earth till date. For this reason, the country emerged as the world’s most polluted at the time. Its air quality levels posing significant health risks to its population of over 250 million people.
According to the Air Quality Index (AQI) Report, from September to December, the country’s AQI remained far above 100, indicating unhealthy air quality. Meanwhile, its fine particulate matter (PM2.5) reached a staggering 50-78, significantly affecting public health.
Health implications
Prolonged exposure to this unhealthy air ultimately led to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, reducing the average Pakistani's life expectancy by approximately 3.9 years and 7 yearsin heavily polluted areas like Lahore, Karachi, and Peshawar.
EZbike's Innovative Solution
The need to address the crisis led companies like EZbike to proffer innovative solutions, particularly in the transportation sector.
As Pakistan’s first electric vehicle ecosystem, EZbike introduced electric bike-sharing services across various cities. The bikes offer an eco-friendly and affordable alternative to traditional gasoline-powered bikes, aiming to reduce vehicular emissions and improve urban air quality.
Because of this, Redcity, a company focused on resolving urban environmental issues, featured EZBike in a recent video to discuss the severity of air pollution in Pakistan and showcase how the company helps resolve it with its electric scooters.
The video features insights on how the company transforms gasoline-powered bikes to electric bikes. It also discusses how the company was able to go from importing electric bikes to manufacturing them in a bid to cut down costs and make them more affordable. From the video, you also discover the different steps the company took in resolving problems, such as the high cost of EV batteries.
In essence, the collaboration serves as the first of many in Redcity's efforts to enlighten society on the need for more sustainable actions. And with more collaborations anticipated in the coming future, we hope to bring to light more establishments leading the way in sustainable solutions.
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In the dynamic world of venture capital, a new generation of firms is making waves around the world. From Europe to Africa, Asia, and North America, these firms are revolutionizing the business scene by investing in ESG startups.
However, they are not only providing much-needed capital to these startups but also nurturing innovation and driving sustainable growth in their respective regions. Additionally, by investing in ESG efforts, these firms incentivize more startups to adopt ESG practices in actualizing their innovative ideas, thus promoting positive environmental and social reforms.
Here, we delve into the unique focus and strategies of 7 venture capital firms investing in ESG startups:
1. 10x Founders:
Based in Germany, 10x Founders supports early-stage tech startups around the world, especially in the DACH region (Germany, Austria and Switzerland). Additionally, the firm leverages a robust network of successful entrepreneurs and investors to provide not just capital but strategic mentorship and resources. With a focus on sectors such as software, fintech, and deep tech, 10x Founders aims to accelerate the growth of innovative, sustainable startups, ensuring they have the tools and support to grow effectively. A few of these remarkable startups that the firm supports include: Fernride, sustainable logistics company; Cyclib, a startup that sustainably recycles batteries for electric vehicles; and Lenco, a Nigerian-built mobile bank app for freelancers, SMEs, and tech startups.
2. 100X.VC:
Over in India, 100X.VC is a venture capital firm that stands out for its distinctive approach to early-stage investments. The firm utilizes iSAFE (India Simple Agreement for Future Equity) notes to streamline the investment process. This approach is designed to be more founder-friendly, making it easier for startups to secure the initial capital needed to grow. Moreover, 100X.VC's portfolio spans a wide range of sectors, including technology, consumer goods, healthcare, and education, all aimed at fostering significant players in their industries. As a result, you can find startups like Battery Pool,BreatheESG, and Emo Energy among the ESG-compliant companies supported by 100X.VC.
In Italy, 20 Ventures is making its mark by providing hands-on support to early-stage technology-driven startups. Furthermore, the firm focuses on sectors such as digital health, artificial intelligence, and clean technology in a bid to support innovative solutions that can disrupt traditional markets. Their approach basically involves deep engagement with their portfolio companies, ensuring they receive the guidance and resources needed to thrive in competitive markets. Sustainable startups like Levante are one of such companies backed by 20 Ventures.
Based in Thailand, A2D Ventures is a venture capital firm that prioritizes investing in early-stage startups across Southeast Asia. The firm seeks to accelerate the growth of innovative startups so as to enable them to create more job opportunities, empower individuals, and also contribute to the sustainable growth and development of southeast Asia. A2D Ventures raises capital for these startups through their large community of angel investors and family offices. The firm is committed to backing visionary entrepreneurs that have the potential to disrupt industries and create new market opportunities. Notably, sustainable startups like Sleek EV and Baniql are among the remarkable companies backed by A2D Ventures.
ABB Technology Ventures (ATV) is the corporate venture capital arm of ABB Group, a global leader in industrial technology and automation. ATV focuses on investing in breakthrough technologies that align with ABB's core business areas, including robotics, industrial automation, electrification, and digitalization. The firm targets early-stage to growth-stage startups that are developing innovative solutions capable of transforming industries and driving sustainability. ABB Technology Ventures provides not only financial support but also access to ABB's vast industrial expertise, global market presence, and extensive customer base, which can significantly accelerate a startup's development and market penetration. In a bid to achieve their goal of enabling a more sustainable future, they are actively investing in sustainable startups like Lumin, Direct Energy Partners, and Okto Grid.
6. Alpha Intelligence Capital VC Firm:
Alpha Intelligence Capital (AIC) is a venture capital firm specializing in artificial intelligence and deep-tech investments. AIC focuses on backing startups that are leveraging AI to create transformative solutions across various industries, such as healthcare, finance, transportation, and cybersecurity. As a result, they seek out companies with strong technical foundations and the potential for significant market impact. AIC provides its portfolio companies with deep domain expertise, strategic insights, and a robust network of industry connections to help them navigate the complexities of scaling AI-driven technologies. This is because their mission is to support the next generation of AI innovators and help them achieve global success. Said innovators include startups like Our Next Energy.
7. The Catalyst Fund:
With over 80 portfolio startups accelerated by them, The Catalyst Fund focuses on supporting innovative fintech and sustainability-driven startups in developing regions, especially in Africa. Since its launch in 2015, the firm has positioned itself as a key player in the global effort to expand financial access and resilience among low-income communities. Its aim is to support entrepreneurs with innovative ideas that can tackle challenges plaguing the world today, most especially climate change. This is why it actively invests in firms like Bekia,Biobuu, Coldhubs, Farmz2U, NoorNation, Thola, and much more.
In essence, these seven venture-capital firms exemplify the diverse and vibrant landscape of venture capital across different regions. Each firm brings a unique approach to supporting startups, tailored to the specific needs and opportunities within their regions.
Moreover, they are not only funding the future but actively shaping it. As they continue to nurture the next generation of successful startups, their impact will undoubtedly resonate across the global economy and encourage sustainable development.
Like the startups supported by these VC firms, Redcity is also ESG compliant. Discover the services we offer here and click here for more news and updates.
What do you think about these 7 Venture Capital Firms Investing in ESG Startups? Comment below.
Now, more than ever, ESG has become the most important framework for determining a company's level of sustainability and ethicality. As a result, investors, consumers, and other stakeholders increasingly scrutinise companies based on their ESG performance.
Consequently, a high ESG rating not only signifies a commitment to sustainability but also reflects sound management practices and risk mitigation strategies.
For this reason, it is important that companies adopt sustainable practices to not only improve their ESG ratings but to also make positive impacts in society. With that said, here are 5 easy ways to improve your ESG rating:
•Training:
Empower your workforce with the expertise and knowledge needed to integrate sustainability into every aspect of your operations. By offering training programs, like Redcity's sustainability course, you can enlighten them on various eco-friendly practices. This way, you foster a culture of sustainability and can ensure that employees are actively engaged in driving positive change within the organization.
Repurposing is a great way to not only reduce your environmental footprint but also cut costs. Whether it's finding innovative ways to reuse waste products, like discarded shipping containers or even sawdust and wood ash, or refurbishing equipment instead of purchasing new ones, repurposing is a good way to improve one's ESG rating. Essentially, exploring opportunities to repurpose materials and resources within your business processes helps drive your sustainability efforts.
Another way to improve your ESG rating is by opting for eco-friendly alternatives when procuring supplies or even event materials. Select products and vendors that prioritise sustainable sourcing, production, and packaging practices. For example, when organising or attending events or exhibitions, consider using eco-friendly booths made from recycled materials or renewable resources. By making conscious choices at every stage of your procurement process, you can minimise environmental impact and enhance your ESG performance.
The act of upscaling involves transforming waste materials like metal scraps, cans, plastics, etc. into products of greater quality and value. This helps reduce waste while also giving it a newer and better purpose. Oil drums, for example, can be upscaled to create innovative furniture or equipment. Companies like Quadloop are experts in upscaling and have transformed various electronic waste materials into better yet inexpensive quality products for families and businesses in Africa.
Align your investment strategies with ESG principles by directing capital towards companies and projects with strong ESG credentials. You can consider integrating ESG criteria into your investment decision-making process or partnerships and actively engaging with portfolio companies to drive positive change. By supporting sustainable initiatives, you not only generate financial returns but also contribute to broader societal and environmental goals. Take Google, for example, who, in their efforts to push sustainable causes, invested in an air testing initiative in Uganda.
In summary, by implementing these practical steps, you can enhance your ESG rating, strengthen your resilience, and create long-term value for all stakeholders. Upholding sustainability is both a moral and strategic imperative for building a more resilient and inclusive future. This way, you can also become a part of the top-ranked companies in Redcity's Global 500 ESG ranking.
Just like you, we also prioritise sustainability and eco-friendly practices, and a few of our services include repurposing shipping containers, building eco-friendly booths, training, etc. To check out more of our services, visit here. Request a quote, and begin your sustainability journey with us.
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The Top-ranked Companies on Redcity's Global 500 ESG Ranking
In today's corporate landscape, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria have become crucial benchmarks for assessing a company's sustainability and societal impact.
This is because the world is increasingly prioritising ethical practices. As a result, companies are under scrutiny to demonstrate their commitment to ESG principles. This way, companies are not only compelled to reduce their waste, which makes up 25% of the world’s annual waste; they're also made to create suitable labour conditions while adopting proper governance principles.
As a way of highlighting companies already adopting ESG policies and motivating more to do the same, we ranked 500 companies across the globe based on their ESG impact. Here are the top-ranked on our list:
1. Hanwha Corp:
Hanwha is a South Korean conglomerate with operations in a diverse range of industries such as explosives, energy, construction, aerospace, mechatronics, and more. It has been proactive in developing eco-friendly solutions to environmental problems and promoting social welfare. By constructing renewable energy facilities, utilising advanced eco-friendly technology in water treatment, and much more, this multi-industrial conglomerate has undoubtedly succeeded in upholding ESG principles. From renewable energy investments to eco-friendly manufacturing processes, Hanwha is making strides in all ESG dimensions. This is why it continuously received an all-inclusiveArating from KCGS from 2021 to 2023 and also takes the top spot on our list.
2. BYD:
BYD is a Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer. As a fierce competitor to Tesla, the company is also a leader in sustainable transportation. By ending its production of combustion-powered vehicles to fully focus on electric vehicles in 2022, BYD was able to not only become the world's third largest EV battery producer but also surpass Tesla as the world's top-selling EV manufacturer in 2023. With an ESG score of 67.34 from ESGbook,it's clear that its focus on EVs, energy storage solutions, and green technologies, as well as its commitment to corporate social responsibility, are why it excels in its ESG performance.
3. Ceer:
Operating in Saudi Arabia, Ceer is another EV manufacturer, considered the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia. It focuses on offsetting carbon emissions through its innovative projects. By utilising renewable energy and implementing sustainable practices, Ceer contributes positively to the environment while also improving societal welfare through the creation of new and valuable job opportunities.
4. Tesla:
Well known for its electric vehicles and renewable energy endeavours, this American company remains a frontrunner in ESG rankings. Tesla's innovative technologies, commitment to clean energy, and transparent governance practices have propelled it to the top, despite occasional controversies.
5. Quadrofoil:
Quadrofoil is a Slovenian company that builds electric boats, bringing sustainability to the maritime industry. It uses hydrofoil technology to create futuristic battery-powered watercraft that are noiseless and can seamlessly navigate waters. In this manner, Quadrofoil helps reduce water pollution and reliance on fossil fuels while also promoting eco-tourism and marine conservation efforts, earning it a top spot on our list.
6. Zenrin:
Zenrin is a Japanese map publishing company specialising in digital mapping systems for cars. By partnering with Pioneer to develop excellent navigation systems for EVs to make them more convenient and easier to drive, it helps accelerate the shift to new energy vehicles, thereby reducing carbon emissions and the reliance on fossil fuels. Zenrin's efforts to make EVs a more appealing option as a way of achieving carbon neutrality, as well as its societal contributions, make it a high-ranking ESG company.
7. Tetra Aviation:
Pioneering electric plane models, Tetra Aviation is a Japanese start-up revolutionising air travel with its eVTOL aircraft. Its ESG ranking is elevated by its efforts to promote sustainable aviation, address environmental concerns associated with traditional aircraft, and make air travel more convenient and comfortable.
8. The Catalyst Fund:
The Catalyst Fund is a global VC fund provider and start-up accelerator primarily investing in Africa. It provides venture capital (VC) funds for eco-conscious projects that drive positive social and environmental change. By supporting sustainable businesses and initiatives across the continent, The Catalyst Fund contributes to inclusive growth and development, thereby promoting ESG principles.
9. Triconti ECC:
Triconti ECC is a female-owned company based in the Philippines that focuses on providing clean energy solutions to the country. Established in 2014, the company's ESG efforts are witnessed through its use of wind energy as a renewable power source to not only reduce carbon emissions but also provide cheaper energy alternatives to members of society. To further drive its ESG efforts, Triconti also delivers project development and technical assistance to wind projects within and outside the Philippines.
10. Volocopter:
Similar to Tetra Aviation, this German aircraft manufacturer specialises in designing electric helicopters, or eVTOL aircrafts, as air taxis for urban cities. Volocopter stands at the forefront of urban air mobility innovations, ensuring zero in-flight emissions as well as a silent and safe transport alternative for consumers. Because of this, its ESG ranking reflects contributions to reducing traffic congestion, carbon emissions, and noise pollution in urban environments.
Essentially, the ESG rankings of these companies reflect their efforts to integrate sustainability, social responsibility, and ethical governance into their business practices. While each company has strengths in different areas, a persistent commitment to ESG principles is crucial for long-term success and positive societal impact. Additionally, with constant increases in fines and penalties for ESG violations, adhering to ESG principles is becoming increasingly important.
Learn more about our ESG ranking here and see where you compare. To also learn how you can improve your ESG score, check out this short guide to ESG.
What did you think about the top-ranked companies on Redcity's Global 500 ESG ranking? Comment below.
