Three global firms, GSK, Holcim, and Kering, are the first to adopt science-based targets for nature, aiming to curb water use and protect biodiversity.
Oliver Balch reports for Ethical Corporation Magazine, a part of Thomson Reuters.
In short:
- GSK is partnering on water stewardship projects in India and plans to reduce water use by 20% by 2030.
- Holcim targets a 39% reduction in freshwater withdrawals in Mexico and is addressing supplier traceability challenges.
- Kering will cut water use by 21% and its land footprint by 3% by 2030, focusing on Tuscany’s leather tanning region.
Key quote:
“We need the comparability and measurability (of more brands joining the fray) in order to know that companies are doing enough to fulfil their part.”
— Erin Billman, executive director of Science Based Targets Network
Why this matters:
Corporate commitments to science-based targets for nature help companies learn about how to reduce their environmental footprint and thereby tackle biodiversity loss and water stress. Addressing these issues helps ensure sustainable supply chains and mitigate future environmental crises, but many companies remain reticent about participating.
Relevant EHN coverage: LISTEN: Revisiting our conversation with Jennifer Roberts discussing nature as medicine
