yet2 Client Unilever, Enhances Commitment to Sustainability

Earlier this summer Unilever, a yet2 client, set out a “new range of measures and commitments designed to improve the health of the planet by taking even more decisive action to fight climate change, and protect and regenerate nature, to preserve resources for future generations.” Unilever’s open innovation initiative, and its open innovation portal are participating in this effort by asking individuals, startups, and NGOs to submit ideas and innovations to support this mission.

The Unilever Sustainable Living Plan (USLP) is central to the company’s business model. It sets out how it is growing the business, while reducing environmental footprint and increasing social impact.

In the June 2020 announcement, Unilever laid out specific actions the company plans to take, including:

• Achieving a deforestation-free supply chain by 2023
• Empowering a new generation of farmers and smallholders who are committed to protecting and regenerating their farm environment
• Introducing a pioneering Regenerative Agriculture Code for all its suppliers
• Implementing water stewardship programs for local communities in 100 locations by 2030
• Joining the 2030 Water Resources Group
• Aiming to make their product formulations biodegradable by 2030

As noted in the press release, “The planet is in crisis, and we must take decisive action to stop the damage, and to restore its health,” said Alan Jope, CEO, Unilever. “Last year, we set out a plan to tackle perhaps the most visible environmental issue we have in the consumer goods industry: plastic packaging. We set ourselves new and stretching targets that include halving out use of virgin plastic, and helping collect and process more plastic packaging than we sell. While it’s critical to address the impact that our products have at the end of their life – in the sourcing of materials – as well as in their manufacture and transport. We will reduce the impact that our products and our operations have on the environment, and we will do our part to bring the planet back to health.”

If you have ideas or innovations to support Unilever’s climate change and environmental goals, please submit them to the Unilever Open Innovation Portal.