With the single largest Canadian donation World Computer Exchange- Canada has ever received, Nissan Canada Inc. (NCI) has found a way to help the education of less fortunate youth, while keeping older technology out of landfills. The donation of almost $70,000 worth of computer equipment makes Nissan Canada the first automaker to work with the global education and environment nonprofit organization.
“We’re thrilled to partner with World Computer Exchange, as it really provides us with a more responsible way to keep on top of new technology,” said Jeff Parent, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Nissan Canada Inc. “Not only is this initiative reducing the environmental impact that disposing of these computers would have, it will connect youth around the world to the skills and opportunities that computers and the internet can provide. It’s a win-win situation, and fits perfectly within our Green Program 2010.”
In total, 70 laptop computers, 128 desktop computers and 136 monitors were donated and will now be re-furbished and distributed to 15 schools, libraries, orphanages and youth centres in a developing country in Africa. Approximately one month after they arrive overseas, World Computer Exchange - Canada will send ten volunteers to assist in training and networking, adding to a cause that already touches the lives of over one million youth each year.
“This is an incredible gesture from Nissan Canada,” said Timothy Anderson, Executive Director for World Computer Exchange - Canada. “We’ve already been able to connect over one million youth per year to the Internet and now, with Nissan’s help, we can connect another 7,500 youth and continue to keep more computers out of landfills, and in schools, libraries and recreation centres where they belong.”
The initiative illustrates what can be accomplished when neighbours work together, as it will significantly reduce the environmental impact that disposing of these computers would have. Energy savings from the partnership are estimated to be the equivalence of enough electricity to power more than 68 households for an entire year.
Nissan’s Green Program 2010 was announced by Nissan globally in 2006, as a way to achieve its philosophy of “symbiosis of people, vehicles and nature” and contribute to a sustainable mobile society. The plan is focused on three core environmental goals: reducing carbon dioxide emissions, reducing other emissions and accelerating recycling efforts.