Unilever, the world’s largest consumer goods company, offers products in food, beverage, cleaning and personal care segments. Founded in 1930, it has grown to become Europe’s seventh most valuable company. The firm has launched a Sustainable Living Plan as a guide to help it grow while increasing positive social impact and without increasing its environmental footprint. The plan sets three main goals, each with specific subcategories of actions for the company to pursue.
- By 2020, help more than one billion people improve their health and well-being
By the end of 2016, Unilever reached about 538 million people[1] through programs on hand-washing, sanitation, oral health, self-esteem and safe drinking water: 379 million people with Lifebuoy soap; 6.2 million with improved access to a toilet[2]; 75 million with its toothpaste brands; 23 million through Dove self-esteem programs; and 55 million with safe drinking water from Pureit.
- By 2030, halve the environmental footprint of the making and use of Unilever products
From 2008 to 2016, Unilever reduced CO2 emissions from energy per ton of production by 43% and total waste sent for disposal per ton of production by 96%. It also sourced 51% of agricultural raw materials sustainably.
- By 2020, enhance the livelihoods of millions of people
This goal focuses on fairness in the workplace, opportunities for women, and inclusive business. In 2016, Unilever rolled out a fair compensation framework with a commitment to a living wage, 920,000 women accessed initiatives to promote safety, develop skills, and expand opportunities, and 46% of managers were female. The firm also worked to improve agricultural practices for 650,000 smallholder farmers and increase incomes for 1.5 million small-scale retailers.
Resources
[1] Independently assured by PwC
[2] Results are reported by UNICEF in accordance with its methodology and includes reach from direct and indirect initiatives over 2012-2015.
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