Kimberly-Clark announces new social impact commitment to reach 1 billion people, and goals to halve its environmental footprint in key areas by 2030
Kimberly-Clark has announced its new 2030 sustainability strategy and goals, aimed at addressing the social and environmental challenges of the next decade with commitments to improve the lives and wellbeing of one billion people in underserved communities around the world with the smallest environmental footprint.
“These extraordinary times remind us why our purpose is more important than ever. Our values, that have guided us for nearly 150 years, will continue to shape our response to the challenges ahead,” said Mike Hsu, Chairman and CEO, Kimberly-Clark.
“I am inspired by our ambition to advance the well-being of one billion people around the world and proud of the significant environmental commitments that we are making to address the impact our products have on the environment.”
The ambitious strategy is outlined in the company’s 2019 Global Sustainability Report, which reflects progress towards the company’s Sustainability 2022 strategy and its pivot to 2030.
“It’s great to see Kimberly-Clark setting such an ambitious new social goal to 2030,” said Sally Uren, Chief Executive, Forum for the Future. “There is also no doubt that we have entered a decade where decisive action will be critical if we hope to survive and thrive through the next century and beyond. It’s exciting to see such a strong focus on human well-being, from a business with so many touchpoints with our health. Achieving such goals whilst protecting natural systems will not be easy, but the delivery of these ambitions will help transform the systems we rely on today and allow future generations to flourish.”
Kimberly-Clark and its trusted brands, including Huggies, Kleenex, Andrex, Cottonelle, Scott, Kotex and Depend, deliver essentials for a better life to one-quarter of the world’s population every day.
Yet millions around the world still lack access to basic products and solutions that could dramatically improve their quality of life – either because they can’t access or afford them, or because of associated social stigmas. Meeting these unmet societal needs is the foundation for our new ten-year commitment – to advance the well-being of one billion people in vulnerable and underserved communities.
The new goal will create positive social outcomes by creating shared value in caring for the health and well-being of people at all stages of life, challenging stigmas and championing the progress of women everywhere, and championing a world where all enjoy access to clean water and sanitation.
“We make lives better when we break down barriers and create opportunities with our purpose-driven brands and products,” said Alison Lewis, Chief Growth Officer for Kimberly-Clark. “To reach a billion people is certainly an ambitious goal that requires a significant step-change from our previous efforts, and we are ready to take it on.”
