In 2010, Unilever introduced the ambitious Sustainable Living Plan in its effort to double its business while reducing its environmental footprint by half in 2020. The results, after ten years, are instructive for long-term strategies in sustainability.
The headline initiatives undertaken included:
1. Sustainable Sourcing: 62% of agricultural raw materials were sustainably sourced in 2020, up from 14% in 2010.
2. Waste reduction: Achieve zero non-hazardous waste to landfill across their global factory network in 2014.
3. Product innovation: The concentrated detergents and reusable packaging have contributed to the reduction of over 100,000 tons of plastic.
4. Brand purpose: In 2018, the "Sustainable Living" brands grew 69% faster than the rest of the business.
Outcome: By 2020, Unilever had reduced their environmental impact per consumer use by ~32% and grew business value to €52 billion, up from €38 billion in 2010.
Key Takeaway: Long-term commitment to sustainability can drive innovation, reduce costs, and fuel business growth.
How does your company integrate sustainability into its core business strategy? I would love to hear your experience.
