Obinna Ojekwe, Head of Marketing and Communications at Hydrogen Payment Services Company Limited, has said that the company’s e-waste initiative reflects its belief that innovation must also support environmental responsibility.
“By turning discarded devices into living trees, we are demonstrating that innovation can be both digital and environmental. This is not a one-time effort. Hydrogen is committed to making e-waste management a continuous journey and inspiring the financial services industry to embrace responsibility for the planet,” he said.
Hydrogen has partnered with Umpaya, an environmental solutions provider, and the Rotary Club of Akowonjo District 9111 to convert electronic waste into environmental value through tree planting. The partnership forms part of Hydrogen’s broader commitment to sustainability across its operations.
The company launched its E-Waste Initiative earlier in the year, beginning with internal education sessions on the risks of electronic waste. Employees donated old laptops, phones and household devices, which were collected for recycling by Umpaya. For every device received, Hydrogen pledged to plant a tree—a “device-for-tree exchange” designed to connect recycling with reforestation.
On 3 October 2025, Hydrogen led the first phase of tree planting at the Lagos Airport Hotel. More than 25 trees, including palm, coconut and tujar species, were planted. The trees are expected to help absorb carbon dioxide, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and generate carbon credits that contribute to climate action and community wellbeing.
Ifeanyi Ochije, Co-founder of Umpaya, said: “Recycling electronics is about more than waste management, it is about creating value, protecting communities, and safeguarding our climate future. By linking e-waste recovery to tree planting, we are building a tangible connection between responsibility and impact.”
To sustain the project, the Rotary Club of Akowonjo District 9111 donated gardening tools and equipment. Its President, Mr David Aimuihenyefe, said: “These trees will not only stand as symbols of environmental stewardship but will also contribute to healthier ecosystems and better livelihoods for years to come.”
For Hydrogen and its partners, the initiative reinforces that progress in technology and business must align with care for the planet. Each recycled device and planted tree marks a step towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.
