Skip to main content
Wooden bed frame

Impact Management in Action: A case of Shell Namibia partnership with Wesco Waste Management Services for Sustainable Wood and Pallet Project

In an effort to reduce waste in our PEL0039 drilling campaign, Shell has teamed up with Namibian-owned Wesco Waste Management Services to launch a sustainable wood and pallet recycling project. Committed to sustainability and community support, Wesco is at the forefront of this initiative. 

A person holding two wooden objects

The innovative project sees wood waste from Shell’s drilling activities donated to Sunshine Kids, a community school for children with special needs. The school runs self-sustaining projects, including a woodworking class where students use the donated materials to create high-quality furniture This hands-on training equips students with valuable skills for future employment and strengthens the school’s self-sufficiency.

The handcrafted wood products created are sold to finance various school programs and promote skills development among the learners.

 

The current chairperson of the board of directors, Ms Barbara Van Rooyen had the following to say:

“As an NGO, we seek to move towards self-reliance and sustainable development. We are thankful and appreciative for the partnership and resources received from companies like Wesco since it contributes greatly towards reaching our mission for ourselves and for others. We will always aim to deliver our best”.

Barbara Van Rooyen

During the second drilling campaign from December 2022 to May 2024, Shell produced over 45 tonnes of wood waste, equivalent to the weight of 7 elephants. Of this, 75% was donated to the community school. As the sustainable wood and pallet project continues to grow, Wesco is committed to maintain its support for the school by delivering wood waste from various drilling and operational activities within the industry.

A person sitting in front of wooden bed frames