P&G hits waste reduction target six years early, sets new sustainability goals

The multinational consumer goods firm has hit its waste-reduction target six years early, with just 0.4% of input materials disposed of as manufacturing waste to landfill across all its facilities – already beating the 2020 target of 0.5%. 

The second success came in the form of pulp certification, with P&G having 54% of the virgin wood fibers used in its tissue and towel products from Forest Stewardship Council-certified sources last year – the target set was 40% by 2015.

Other highlights of P&G’s 2014 sustainability report include: –

> CO2 – reducing total emissions by 14% and installing two co-generation energy systems that will considerably reduce CO2 emissions, including 120,000 less metric tons per year at its largest global plant in Mehoopany.
> Cold-water washing – 53% of machine laundry washes were done in cold water last year through consumer education programs, closing in on P&G’s goal of 70% cold-water washes.
> Water – committing to 25% less water in every dose of liquid laundry detergents sold in North America by 2018.
> Packaging – delivering innovations including Mr Clean Liquid Muscle that includes a 2.5x compaction formula with 45% less packaging and 64% less water per bottle, along with a unique single-dosing cap that ensures people don’t use too much.
> Product Formulation – committing to another round of compaction in its liquid laundry detergents by 2018 in North America, with 25% less water, less CO2 and less plastic.
Social programs – exceeding its goal of improving the lives of 50 million people annually through its social programs.

“Our teams are driven to make a significant, positive and lasting impact on the communities we serve through our operations, product designs and innovative partnerships, and this year’s report showcases the results of that dedication,” said P&G’s executive sponsor of sustainability Martin Riant.

“Our work to drive zero manufacturing waste to landfill across our manufacturing facilities has exceeded expectations with nearly 50% of our sites achieving this goal since 2010.”

Video: P&G’s zero waste policy

New targets

The report also reaffirms four new 2020 sustainability goals that P&G initially set out in October.

> Reduce water usage at manufacturing facilities by 20% per unit of production.
> Provide one billion people access to water-efficient products.
> Double the use of recycled resin in plastic packaging.
> Ensure 90% of product packaging is recyclable or that programs are in place to create the ability to recycle it.

“Our teams, in collaboration with some leading external partners, have delivered high-impact innovations and projects, helping us exceed goals in two key areas of the business, and closing in on others,” added Martin. “We recognize that there is more to be done and are committed to focusing on areas where we can make the biggest positive impact.”

P&G 2014 Sustainability Report

Luke Nicholls