Target Netherlands Adds Method's Airopack Air Fresheners To Environment-Friendly Product Line April 17, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Retailer Target’s Netherlands division added Method’s Airopack line of home fragrances to its range of ecology-friendly and organic products. Target chose leading brands whose products are already being sold at its stores, and called on them to offer products that are natural, organic, or sustainable. Method’s home air fresheners come with the Airopack air-powered dispensing system the company claims offers a “fully transparent, all-plastic pressurized dispenser” that combines effectiveness and environment-friendliness. "Airopack's Air-Powered Room Fresheners to Join Target's New Sustainable Range", PR Newswire, April 17, 2014, © PR Newswire Association LLC

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Food Companies Try To Settle The Argument Over Paper Versus Plastic Foam Cups April 10, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Plastic foam cups do a great job of keeping cold drinks cold and hot drinks hot. But there is a perception among many consumers – and even some companies – that foam cups are not environmentally friendly because they do not recycle well. Scientists continue to debate the issue, but in the meantime retail restaurants like Starbucks, McDonald’s and Jamba Juice have turned to paper cups, particularly the more expensive double-walled ones that provide extra insulation. The big challenge for food companies is to find cups that work as well as plastic foam, don’t end up costing the consumer more and are more recyclable, according to industry analysts. Laura Stevens, "Hot Drink Debate: Paper or Plastic?", The Wall Street Journal, April 10, 2014, © Dow Jones & Company, Inc

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Computer Models Show That Solar Farms Can Harvest More Than Electricity April 9, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Stanford University scientists have developed computer models that use the principle of co-location of crops and solar panels on solar farms to harvest biofuel plants as well as electricity. The idea would work especially well in sunny, arid regions where water is scarce. Photovoltaic solar farms run on sunlight, but water is used to wash away dust and dirt from solar panels to ensure maximum efficiency. Water also dampens the ground to prevent the spread of dust. Crops planted beneath the solar panels capture runoff water used to clean the panels, optimizing the land. The plant roots help anchor the soil and foliage reduces the ability of wind to kick up dust. Ker Than, "Stanford scientists model a win-win situation: growing crops on photovoltaic farms", News release, Stanford News Service, April 09, 2014, © Stanford University

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Target Expands Range Of Natural, Sustainable Products It Sells April 8, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Retailer Target expanded the range of natural, organic, and sustainable brands it sells at its stores as part of the company’s Made to Matter initiative in the United States. Coming from leading organic brands, including Chobani, Method, and Seventh Generation, the collection will include more than 120 products, such as non-aerosol air freshener and no-bleach baby diapers. Target’s initiative, which encourages the brands to collaborate and increase their innovation, has helped the company increase its sales of sustainable and organic products by 15 percent over the past several years. ANNE D'INNOCENZIO, "Target ups game on organic, sustainable products", The Big Story, April 08, 2014, via The Associated Press, © The Associated Press

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In A Time Of Food Scarcity Around The Globe, European Retailers Waste Megatons Of Produce April 6, 2014: 12:00 AM EST To demonstrate the magnitude of produce wastage by European retailers, Feeding the 5000 and partner organizations prepared free lunches in Brussels on April 1 with edible food about to be discarded for frivolous reasons. Tons of produce from as far away as East Africa were used to prepare the meals. In Kenya farmers were found to be trashing 40 percent of what they grew because of  “unfair and unnecessary trading practices” of European supermarkets. Waste handlers who collect unwanted edible produce must guarantee in writing that none of the “green waste” will be used to feed people. Produce is discarded because European retailers have cancelled a forecast demand at the last minute, or because the produce has not met “ultra-fussy cosmetic standards”. "Fill bellies, not bins!", News release, EurActive, April 06, 2014, © EurActiv.com PLC

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Coffee Flour Venture Offers Benefits To Bread Makers, Coffee Farmers April 4, 2014: 12:00 AM EST An innovative culinary idea has caught the attention of billionaire former Microsoft exec – and foodie – Nathan Myhrvold and his investment firm, Intellectual Ventures. Dan Belliveau, formerly of Starbucks, believes that flour made by grinding the dried pulp of the fleshy coverings of coffee beans – normally discarded as waste – offers significant benefits. It contains caffeine, for one, and it can be used as a fiber- and protein-rich, gluten-free supplement to other flours, because of its good binding qualities. Coffee flour made from an undesirable waste product could give coffee farmers an extra source of revenue and make coffee production more environmentally palatable. Fluctuating coffee prices combined with a spreading disease known as "coffee rust" fungus have ruined many Central American coffee farmers. Ángel González, "A cup of coffee flour may hit the spot for Seattle startup", The Seattle Times Company, April 04, 2014, © The Seattle Times Company

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Henkel Honored For Sustainability, Ethics Policies March 25, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Sustainability investment specialist RobecoSAM has awarded household products company Henkel its Gold Class ranking in sustainability practices. RobecoSAM, in collaboration with KPMG, publishes the Sustainability Yearbook listing 3,000 global companies whose sustainability agendas and practices are voluntarily assessed annually. Henkel was also named one of the “World’s Most Ethical Companies” by the Ethisphere Institute, an independent organization promoting best practices in corporate ethics and governance. Henkel was one of only nine companies in the consumer products manufacturing industry to be recognized for its ethical leadership and behavior. "Henkel named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies", News release, Henkel, March 25, 2014, © Henkel AG & Co. KGaA

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“Slow Food” Movement Expands Its Horizons As It Grows Locally March 25, 2014: 12:00 AM EST The “slow food” movement, which began with the idea of revitalizing food varieties and flavors in an era of industrialized food, has broadened its focus in recent years. The Slow Food organization itself, with chapters in 100 countries, is now about sustainability, local community and connecting. The 13-year-old Austin, Texas, chapter, for example, comprises artisans, farmers markets, urban farms and locally-driven cafes. It advises the city council on getting city government, nonprofit organizations, and food and farming businesses talking about sustainable growing, sourcing and eating. The end result is that “people become more connected with local food sources that align with our values”, according to Slow Food Austin’s communications director. "Slow food movement speeds up sustainable eating", USA Today, March 25, 2014, © USA Today/Gannett

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PepsiCo’s Biodegradable Snack Bag Was A Disaster – At First March 18, 2014: 12:00 AM EST PepsiCo’s attempt to boost its snack brands image and perhaps help ease an environmental problem began with the development of a compostable snack bag but nearly ended after a public relations calamity. The biodegradable bag made from plant material was first marketed in 2006 with the SunChips “healthy snack” product, but quickly drew consumer ire because it was a lot noisier than the old bag.  A social media uproar ensured, and the bad publicity created a dilemma for PepsiCo: should they abandon the new bag or push on with it? They pushed on, eventually creating a quieter version. In a business management journal article, Gregory Unruh discusses three lessons that can be drawn from the PepsiCo experience. Leslie Brokaw, "Pepsi's biodegradable backlash: The snack bag that was too noisy", GreenBiz, March 18, 2014, © GreenBiz Group

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Walmart Begins Testing Its WAVE Environment-Friendly Trucks March 13, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Walmart began testing its Walmart Advanced Vehicle Experience, or WAVE, cargo truck whichs is built from carbon fiber and is 20 percent more aerodynamic than existing trucks. Part of the retailer’s sustainability efforts, the truck will also feature a micro-turbine hybrid engine that can run on many types of fuel. WAVE trucks will also have an electric motor and a battery system for storing electric power. With its emissions reportedly still growing, Walmart aims to double the fuel efficiency of its trucks by 2015. "Walmart rolls out testing of radical carbon fiber truck", GreenBiz, March 13, 2014, © GreenBiz Group

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Mars Strengthen Commitment To Palm Oil Sustainability, Traceability March 10, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Candymaker Mars, Inc., announced it is committing to a fully sustainable and traceable palm oil chain by the end of 2014. The company has introduced a new sourcing charter that will require suppliers to have a fully sustainable and traceable palm oil supply across all operations by the end of 2015, or at least to have plans in place by the end of 2015. The policy aligns the company with global efforts to combat tropical deforestation because of rapid expansion of palm plantations. The enhanced pipeline traceability policy is designed to encourage suppliers to only source from companies whose plantations and farms are “responsibly run”. "Mars Launches New Policies On Palm Oil And Deforestation", News release, MARS, March 10, 2014, © Mars, Inc.

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Greenpeace Protest Against P&G Spreads To London March 7, 2014: 12:00 AM EST The Greenpeace protest against Procter & Gamble’s use of palm oil sourced from a questionable Indonesian supplier spread to London on March 7, when a P&G ad agency (Saatchi & Saatchi) was targeted. The company’s headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio, was the first facility besieged recently when protesters entered the buildings surreptitiously and unfurled huge banners from 12 floors up. The London protest involved counting the number of people who entered agency doors marked with either “Protect Forests” or “Destroy Forests”. Greenpeace says the palm oil used in P&G brands comes from deforested areas of Indonesia that are home to Sumatran orangutans and tigers. Barrett J. Brunsman, "Greenpeace protest against P&G goes global", Cincinnati Business Courier (Ohio), March 07, 2014, © American City Business Journals

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Unilever CEO Rewarded For Progress Toward Sustainability Goals March 7, 2014: 12:00 AM EST According to Unilever’s annual report to stockholders, CEO Paul Polman was given a $722,230 bonus for work that led to the creation of the company's sustainable-living plan, which sets targets for reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, water use, and waste creation. A Unilever spokeswoman said the bonus was calculated using a “personal performance multiplier” that took into account  Polman’s job performance, leadership, delivery of sustainability goals, and “overall contribution” to the plan, which calls for halving the environmental footprint by 2020 and sustainably sourcing all agricultural raw materials. Matthew Boyle , "Unilever Hands CEO Polman $722,000 Bonus for Sustainability Work", Bloomberg Businessweek, March 07, 2014, © Bloomberg Businessweek

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Greenpeace Breaches Tight Security At P&G HQ To Protest Questionable Palm Oil Supplier March 6, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Greenpeace recently targeted Procter & Gamble headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio, with a protest over palm oil allegedly purchased from a supplier linked to deforestation in Indonesia. According to the company, usually known for its stringent security measures, an environmental activist dressed in unobtrusive business clothes entered the building claiming to have an appointment. The person then let in collaborators carrying inconspicuous bags through another door. The protest materials included huge “eye-catching” banners unfurled from the 12th floor. In response, P&G’s “crackerjack” security team has since tightened security at the building. Dan Sewell, "P&G says Ohio HQ security tightened after protest", Report, Associate Press, March 06, 2014, via Associated Press International, © The Associated Press/Ohio/Oklahoma Hearst Television Inc. on behalf of WLWT-TV

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Unilever Joins Global Forest Watch To Help Fight Deforestation February 21, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Unilever joined the Global Forest Watch, an organization that aims to provide a dynamic online monitoring and alert system to help protect the world’s remaining forests. Global Forest Watch’s forest-protection objectives are in line with the company’s sustainability targets, which include making the palm oil it uses 100 percent traceable to known suppliers by 2014 and sustainably source all soy beans by 2014 and all soy oils by 2020. Global Forest Watch integrates satellite technology, open data, and crowdsourcing to provide access to reliable information about forests in real time. "Unilever signs up to Global Forest Watch", Unilever, February 21, 2014, © Unilever

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Swiss Chocolate Maker Completes Buyout Of African Cocoa Bean Supplier February 19, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Swiss chocolate maker Barry Callebaut has bought the remaining 51 percent of its stake in long-time certified cocoa beans suppler Biolands Group of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Biolands has been supplying East and West African cocoa beans to the chocolate maker since 2000. Barry Callebaut has owned 49 percent of the company since 2008. The company said the Biolands acquisition fits well with its strategy of becoming a leader in sustainable cocoa and of gaining access to individual farmers in addition to cooperatives. "Barry Callebaut takes over remaining 51% of certified bean supplier Biolands", Barry-Callebaut, February 19, 2014, © Barry Callebaut AG

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Second Cargill Oil Palm Plantation In Indonesia Wins Sustainability Certification February 18, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A Cargill Indonesian oil palm plantation has been certified by the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO). The plantation in West Kalimantan, PT Harapan Sawit Lestari, is the second certification for a Cargill plantation in the country, after one in South Sumatra. The company said a third plantation in West Kalimantan is in the process of being RSPO certified. The RSPO is a global, multi-stakeholder initiative on sustainable palm oil, comprising environmental and social NGOs, growers, manufacturers and retailers of palm oil products. "Cargill’s West Kalimantan plantation receives RSPO certification", News release, Cargill, February 18, 2014, © Cargill, Incorporated

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Wal-Mart CEO Urges Employees, Suppliers To Become Sustainability Trailblazers February 17, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Wal-Mart Stores Inc. CEO Doug McMillon called on employees and suppliers to innovate during the retailer’s 2014 Global Sustainability Milestone Meeting. During his speech, McMillon recalled then CEO Lee Scott’s announcement of the company’s sustainability goals 10 years ago. While acknowledging that Wal-Mart has made significant achievements in terms of sustainability, McMillion said the next huge step will likely be driven by innovations based on a total-system approach. He challenged employees and suppliers to come up with ways they could help the retailer advance its sustainability agenda. Kim Souza, "McMillon challenges Wal-Mart and suppliers in ongoing sustainability push", The City Wire , February 17, 2014, © TCW Media

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Passion For Locally-Sourced, Organic Ingredients Drives Mich. Doughnut Entrepreneur February 12, 2014: 12:00 AM EST The owner of newly-opened Propaganda Doughnuts in Grand Rapids, Mich., believes whole-heartedly in his vision of what a progressive doughnut shop should be. A major part of that vision is using locally and organically sourced ingredients that are trans fat-free and low in saturated fat. Tory O’haire always offers the familiar varieties of doughnuts, but mixes in a constantly changing menu of avant-garde offerings, all made from scratch each day: e.g., the Corsican (vanilla cake with lavender-lemon icing), the Posterboy (salted caramel), the Smooth Criminal (chocolate cake & coffee ganache) and Nutella. O'Haire is passionate about sustainable, organic, and local sourcing, and he says in his town, locally sourced is more than just a buzzword, “it’s an expectation”. Joshua Vissers , "New shop brings specialty doughnuts to a hungry city", The Collegiate Live , February 12, 2014, © The Collegiate Live

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Bamboo May Find A Place In Kimberly-Clark’s Fiber Sourcing Plan February 5, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A study commissioned by Kimberly-Clark has determined that using bamboo to make paper products would have a smaller environmental impact than northern softwood tree species because it regenerates so quickly. The life-cycle assessment shows that bamboo could fit in well with the company’s sourcing strategy as an alternative fiber. Scientists at the Georgia Institute of Technology assessed the environmental impacts of Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft fiber, recycled waste fiber, bamboo, wheat straw, giant cane Arundo donax and kenaf. Bamboo was found to have less impact on land use because it regenerates in three years, instead of the 70 years needed for softwood trees. "Kimberly-Clark Study Pinpoints Bamboo as Possible Alternative Fiber", Environmental Leader, February 05, 2014, © Environmental Leader LLC

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P&G Technical Innovation Leads To Safer Hair Dyes January 31, 2014: 12:00 AM EST P&G says one of its technological innovations will have “far-reaching benefits” for consumers of hair coloring products. The ME+ molecule is an advancement that reduces the risk of severe allergic reactions to hair dyes. According to the company, its research and modeling techniques led to an alteration in the molecular structure of the long-used pPD molecule to become the ME+ molecule, combining color performance and reduction in the risk of allergy. Colorists, hairdressers and technical experts who have tested ME+ say it provides permanent gray coverage and color intensity. "Take a Closer Look at 3 Exciting Behind-the Scenes Innovations", News release, Procter & Gamble, January 31, 2014, © Procter & Gamble

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Many Large Palm Oil Producers Fall Short Of Sustainability Goals January 28, 2014: 12:00 AM EST The Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) has published a report – and produced a short film – showing that big palm oil producers are failing to reach their sustainability targets. Though palm oil buyers – retailers, food companies and consumer goods producers – are using more sustainable palm oil, they are still not using enough to support responsible growers. Of 130 buyers polled by WWF, less than half purchase palm oil that meets social and environmental standards set by the Roundtable for Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO). Thirty-one percent have made “only vague commitments to buying sustainable palm oil or none whatsoever”. The result is a glut of uncertified palm oil on the market, and not much progress toward protecting rain forests and endangered species like the orangutan. Oliver Balch , "Palm oil: WWF name and shame top global buyers", Guardian Professional, January 28, 2014, © Guardian News and Media Limited

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Procter & Gamble Plans To Make All Laundry Detergents Phosphate-Free January 26, 2014: 12:00 AM EST Procter & Gamble said it plans to remove phosphates from the laundry detergents it manufactures within two years. Accounting for the largest share of the U.S. laundry detergent market and more than 25 percent of the global market, P&G stopped using phosphates in laundry detergents sold in the United States in the early 1990s as part of its participation in the industry group American Cleaning Institute’s voluntary program. It also removed phosphates from laundry detergents sold in Europe several years ago. When it reaches waterways, sodium triphosphate, the most commonly used phosphate in laundry detergents, can cause environmental damage, such as algae blooms, decline in oxygen levels, and fish kills. Erica Gies, "Proctor & Gamble to remove phosphates from laundry soap globally", theguardian.com, January 26, 2014, © Guardian News and Media Limited

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Though A Debatable Issue, Whole Foods To Ban Use Of Sludge-Based Fertilizers By Its Growers January 21, 2014: 12:00 AM EST The safety of sludge (AKA biosolids) – the byproduct of processing municipal waste, including human body waste – as a fertilizer is a debatable issue. But Whole Foods Market, perhaps influenced by anti-sludge activists, has decided it’s definitely bad for customers, and for business. Anti-sludgists say biosolids are loaded with heavy metals and pharmaceuticals that render fertilizers toxic and dangerous. Scientists who have studied biosolids, however, disagree, saying they offer big environmental benefits. At any rate, a new produce rating system being launched by Whole Foods in September will bar its growers from using biosolids. The company acknowledges that none currently use the stuff on their fields. Eliza Barclay, "Whole Foods Bans Produce Grown With Sludge. But Who Wins?", Report, NPR, January 21, 2014, © NPR

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Obesity Epidemic Not Just A Western Phenomenon January 3, 2014: 12:00 AM EST A British think tank reports that more than a third of adults globally were overweight or obese in 2008, a 23 percent increase from 1980. Adults in the developing world did not escape the phenomenon, of course: over the last 30 years, obese adults in these countries quadrupled to 904 million, more than are found in the developed countries. But the surprise is how the trend has invaded emerging economies. According to the Overseas Development Institute, the increase in  obesity is associated with a "creeping homogenization" of diets globally, thanks to rising incomes, the impact of advertising and globalization. Sharada Keats and Steve Wiggins, "Future diets: Implications for agriculture and food prices", Overseas Development Institute, January 03, 2014, © Overseas Development Institute

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Brooklyn’s New Whole Foods Market Is About As “Green” As A Grocery Can Get January 2, 2014: 12:00 AM EST The newly opened Whole Foods Market in Brooklyn, N.Y., may be an example of how eco-friendly stores could be built in the future. The 56,000-square-foot facility is 60 percent more energy efficient than requried by building codes, thanks to an array of advanced technologies. These include a combined heat-and-power system designed to keep the store operating even in a power failure. The store uses highly efficient and zero-ozone depleting refrigeration equipment and high-efficiency lighting and daylighting to illuminate the store. On-site renewable energy features include 324 kilowatts-worth of solar canopies over the parking lot that will supply about 20 percent of the store's electricity. Kit Kennedy, "Whole Foods opens one of nation’s most energy-efficient markets", GreenBiz , January 02, 2014, © GreenBiz Group

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Henkel’s Sustainability Performance Recognized By Stock Exchanges December 23, 2013: 12:00 AM EST Henkel in December extended its track record in sustainable development when it was included for the first time in the indices of the transatlantic stock exchange operator NYSE Euronext and the French rating agency Vigeo. Cross-sector sustainability and ethical indices are important factors in the capital markets. Performance on sustainable development is evaluated regularly and is reflected in various ratings and rankings. Henkel was also included for the third time in the Global Challenges Index, a sustainability listing comprising 50 securities, operated by the Hannover Stock Exchange and the sustainability rating agency oekom research AG. "Henkel: Sustainability performance confirmed by latest capital market developments", News release, Henkel, December 23, 2013, © Henkel AG & Co. KGaA

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SC Johnson Cites Progress In Global Energy Reduction Plan December 16, 2013: 12:00 AM EST SC Johnson says the five-year plan to reduce its environmental footprint continues apace: it is on track to reach a goal of sourcing a third of its global energy from renewable sources. In the last ten years, the company has launched ten renewable energy projects around the world, including wind power, solar and cogeneration. The company recently celebrated the one-year anniversary of the building of two wind turbines at a factory in Wisconsin. The turbines have cut almost 6,000 metric tons of greenhouse gases and, combined other power cogeneration systems, are the only source of electrical energy at the factory. "SC Johnson On Track to Hit Global Renewable Energy Goals", News release, SC Johnson, December 16, 2013, © SC Johnson

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Unilever Pleads Guilty Of Environmental Violations, Agrees To Pay $4.5 Million In Penalty December 6, 2013: 12:00 AM EST Unilever admitted guilt in two felony environmental laws violations and agreed to pay $4.5 million in penalty for its failure to promptly report illegal discharges of industrial wastewater at its manufacturing plant in Clinton. U.S. environmental officials, investigators, and prosecutors claimed the company intentionally bypassed its wastewater treatment system and released partially treated wastewater directly into the city’s storm water drainage system for as long as two years. A contract employee of Unilever informed state environmental officers about the treatment system bypass on December 5, 2008. Edmund H. Mahony, "Unilever To Pay $4.5 Million for Environmental Crimes", Hartford Courant (Connecticut), December 06, 2013, © Hartford Courant (Connecticut)

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Unilever Enlists Supplier Linfox For Sustainability Initiative December 6, 2013: 12:00 AM EST Unilever signed a Joint Business Development Plan deal with partner Linfox Logistics. Under Unilever’s Partner to Win program, JBDP deals highlight the consumer goods company’s emphasis on working closely with its strategic suppliers to achieve sustainable business growth for all parties involved. Unilever’s deal with Linfox focuses on improving supply chain capacity, flexibility, and responsiveness, as well as improving costs and deploying safe and sustainable practices. "Unilever signs joint Business Development Plan with Linfox", Voxy, December 06, 2013, © Digital Advance Limited

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Procter & Gamble's Wyoming County Facility Becomes Energy Self-Sufficient November 27, 2013: 12:00 AM EST Procter & Gamble’s manufacturing facility in Wyoming County, Pennsylvania, achieved energy self-sufficiency after installing the Cogen2 cogenerator power plant. Before completing the cogenerator, the factory was the largest electricity and natural gas customer for local utilities for 45 years. In 2012, the facility sourced 50 percent of its power requirements from the Marcellus gas discovered in 2009 underground its property. After the gas discovery, P&G worked with energy firms Citrus and UGI to develop and harness the gas and make the facility energy self-sufficient. Robert L. Baker , "P&G moves beyond paper with power generation", The Times-Tribune, November 27, 2013, © The Scranton Times-Tribune

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Guidelines Issued For Sustainable Production Of Beef November 27, 2013: 12:00 AM EST A global industry program has issued a set of guidelines to help members produce beef sustainably. The Sustainable Agriculture Initiative (SAI) Platform says the guidelines are the most comprehensive developed for beef production to date. They include sustainable farming systems, economic sustainability, social sustainability and economic sustainability. They also require achievements in each area of beef cattle production. Members of the SAI include major beef users, including McDonald’s and Unilever. "McDonald’s, Unilever ‘Beef Up Sustainability’", Environmental Leader, November 27, 2013, © Environmental Leader LLC

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Henkel Receives CSR Honors For Sustainability Efforts In MENA Region November 27, 2013: 12:00 AM EST Henkel said it has been shortlisted for the 2013 Arabia Corporate Social Responsibility Awards’ Large Sized Enterprise category. Held under the patronate of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority president, Emirates Group CEO, and Dubai Airport chairman Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the awards recognize companies’ CSR initiatives, including sustainability efforts, in Arabian countries. Henkel said it was recognized for its contribution to sustainability in the region by reducing its environmental footprint. "Henkel is among the Top 5 sustainable companies in Arabia", Henkel, November 27, 2013, © Henkel AG & Co. KGaA

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Nestlé Continues To Replace Old Ice Cream Freezers With Eco-Friendly Models November 27, 2013: 12:00 AM EST As part of a commitment to use only environmentally friendly refrigerants, and phase out damaging hydrofluorocarbons, Nestlé announced that new commercial ice cream freezers in Europe would use only naturally occurring substances. Eco-friendly refrigerants include carbon dioxide, ammonia, water, air and hydrocarbons like propane and isobutane, none of which harm the ozone layer. The new ice cream freezers also reduce energy consumption by more than a third. The company has invested more than $264 million to replace synthetic refrigerants with natural alternatives in more than 92 percent of its industrial refrigeration systems. "New Nestlé freezers to help tackle climate change", News release, Nestlé, November 27, 2013, © Nestlé

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Companies Adopt Rail Freight To Reduce Environmental Impact And Shipping Costs November 26, 2013: 12:00 AM EST An increasing number of companies are integrating railroad transport into their freight operations as part of their efforts to reduce their environmental footprint. Freight transport accounts for 15 percent of business-related carbon emissions in the U.S. Ocean Spray reduced its U.S. Southeast distribution operations’ carbon emissions by 20 percent and its transportation costs by 40 percent by opening a distribution center in the region and using empty rail cars returning from a rival’s deliveries to Florida. Other companies are also using rail as a major component of their shipping logistics, with the “Inbound Logistics” magazine reporting that intermodal traffic hit a new high in the U.S. in August 2013. Jelly Belly Candy Co. saves more than $500,000 each year after adopting intermodal transport for all its shipments. In Europe, competitors Colgate Palmolive, Mondelez International, and Nestle are pooling their shipments to take advantage of the advantages offered by rail freight. Jason Mathers , "More Companies Find Success With Greener Freight", Environmental Defense Fund, November 26, 2013, © Environmental Defense Fund

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Innovation And Sustainability To Drive Growth In Body Care Segment, Mintel Reports November 25, 2013: 12:00 AM EST In 2007–2012, the body care market in the United States suffered a 10 percent decline in sales; however, the segment is forecast to recover, driven by innovation and products that promote sustainability and ethical sourcing, Mintel said. According to the market research firm, almost a third of consumers who buy body care products are looking for more environment-friendly personal care products. Just as important, however, is consumer demand for product efficacy, which means products that meet these requirements are likely to find market success. Also, consumers prefer body care products that feel good on the body, Mintel said. Lisa Doyle, "The Feel Good Factors in Body Care", GCI Magazine , November 25, 2013, © Allured Business Media

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Kimberly-Clark Wins Recognition For Forest-Friendly Supply Chain Operations November 22, 2013: 12:00 AM EST Kimberly-Clark Corp. was named the industry leader for household and personal care products in terms of efforts to reduce deforestation risks across its global supply chain, according to the 2013 forest report by nonprofit group CDP. Factors the prompted CDP to award this recognition to Kimberly-Clark include the company’s completion of a full risk assessment of its forestry-related products in its supply chain, its efforts to determine country of origin of commodities beyond its first-rung suppliers, and its plan to achieve 100 percent certified materials or determine appropriate alternatives. CDP’s annual forests report looks at how the largest manufacturers work to minimize their operations’ adverse impact on the world’s forests. "Kimberly-Clark Named Sector Leader for Improving Deforestation Risk in Supply Chain", Kimberly-Clark , November 22, 2013, © Kimberly-Clark Corporation

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Procter & Gamble Aims To Highlight Sustainability Efforts With Its Marketing November 19, 2013: 12:00 AM EST Procter & Gamble said it plans to integrate its sustainability message into its marketing, as part of its efforts to communicate to customers things it believes have a real impact on their lives. The shift in marketing comes with the company’s release of its sustainability update, and in line with its long-term vision of achieving 100 percent renewable energy and zero landfill-bound waste. P&G global sustainability director Virginie Helias said the company has worked to make sustainability a part of its innovation efforts and that P&G aims to connect sustainability with brand equity. Sarah Vizard, "P&G marketing to showcase sustainability efforts", Marketing Week, November 19, 2013, © Centaur Communications Ltd

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Unilever Plans To Buy Palm Oil Only From Traceable Sources By End Of 2014 November 12, 2013: 12:00 AM EST Unilever announced its plan to purchase palm oil only from traceable and known sources by the end of 2014. One of the world’s largest buyers of palm oil for use in products, such as margarine, ice cream, and soap, Unilever buys about 1.5 million tonnes of palm oil and related products each year, accounting for about 3 percent of the world’s total production. Unilever’s chief procurement officer Marc Engel reiterated the company’s commitment to supporting the campaign for sustainability in the palm oil industry. "100% of Palm Oil bought will be traceable to known sources by end 2014", Unilever , November 12, 2013, © Unilever

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Procter & Gamble, Unilever, Other FMCG Companies Expand Efforts To Reduce Waste November 12, 2013: 12:00 AM EST Fast moving consumer goods companies, including Procter & Gamble and Hindustan Unilever, are adopting zero waste policies to improve their sustainability and bottom lines in India. P&G’s manufacturing sites in India are among its 45 sites worldwide that have achieved zero-waste status, in the process, creating more than $1 billion in value for the company. In India, P&G reuses waste to manufacture liquid soap and incense sticks. Unilever claimed it has saved €10 million and avoided wasting another €186 million by reducing waste disposal at its factories worldwide by as much as 50 percent in 2012 from 2008 levels. Also, the company plans to implement 100 waste-reduction ideas from its employees in 2013. Prasad Sangameshwaran, "A Zero Waste World", Businessworld, November 12, 2013, © Businessworld

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Target Launches Sustainable-Supplier Initiative; Aims To Narrow Walmart's Lead November 12, 2013: 12:00 AM EST Retailer Target started collecting information from suppliers of the approximately 7,500 products it sells in the household cleaning, personal care, beauty, and baby-care categories. It will then assess the products’ qualities in terms of sustainability using criteria developed by GoodGuide to establish its Sustainable Product Standard. At present, Target lags behind some of its rivals in terms of promoting sustainability; for example, Walmart has taken the lead in the retail sector with its sustainable-supplier initiative. Aside from being the top brand in terms of adopting solar energy in the United States, Walmart also claimed that its sustainability index for suppliers is leading the industry. Dale Buss , "Target Launches Sustainable-Supplier Push in Bid to Catch Walmart", Brandchannel.com, November 12, 2013, © brandchannel

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Walmart Launches Great Value Naturals Line Of Environment-Friendly Cleaning Products November 8, 2013: 12:00 AM EST Walmart announced the Great Value Naturals line of cleaning products made from natural ingredients. Available in more than 2,000 Walmart stores across the United States, the all-natural cleaning products are as effective as the leading brands of conventional cleaning products, the company said. Sold exclusively at Walmart, the products are made from plant-based Evolve cleaning technology and are 100 percent free from chemicals and toxins. They are biodegradable, non-allergenic and packaged in recyclable materials, the company added. "Walmart’s Great Value Brand Goes Green with New Cleaning Products", Wal-Mart, November 08, 2013, © Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

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Unilever Unveils Home Water Purifier In Pakistan That Removes Viruses, Bacteria Cheaply November 4, 2013: 12:00 AM EST Unilever Pakistan has introduced a home water purification device that works without using electricity or gas. The new Pureit water purifier instead uses sustainable “Unilever proprietary technology” to provide safe and clean water, according to the company. The purification technology takes water through five stages using a “Programmed Germ Kill Technology” to remove harmful bacteria and viruses and provide “odorless natural tasting water” for about two cents a liter. "Unilever launches Pureit Water Purifier in Pakistan", Unilever, November 04, 2013, © Unilever

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Unilever CEO Polman Says Capitalism Must Learn Social Values October 30, 2013: 12:00 AM EST Unilever CEO Paul Polman said capitalism must evolve when he spoke at an advertising conference hosted by the Indian Society of Advertisers. During his speech, Polman discussed three global trends that corporations need to consider and deal with while operating their business. Corporations have to be aware of the “emergence of a new Asian hemisphere.” As the United States increasingly focuses its attention more on its domestic affairs, it becomes apparent that countries, such as India and China, are not yet ready to become the new America. Businesses also have to deal with the connected consumer, empowered by the Internet and mobile technologies enough to topple dictators and irresponsible companies. Finally, according to Polman, global politics and businesses cannot ignore the “end of the era of abundance.” Corporations cannot afford extreme consumerism and the effects of global warming, Polman added. Gouri Shah, "Capitalism needs to evolve, says Unilever CEO Paul Polman", Live Mint, October 30, 2013, © HT Media

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Consumer Demand For Natural Products Drives Growth In Renewable Chemicals October 29, 2013: 12:00 AM EST Companies, including Coca-Cola, Wal-Mart, and Procter & Gamble, are expanding their use of renewable chemicals, such as extracts of rosemary and the marigold flower, to replace petroleum-based chemicals in packaging, cleaning products, and cosmetics. Growth in the renewable chemicals market, which is expected to reach $83 billion in value in 2018, is driven by unpredictability in the petroleum market, increasing consumer demand for natural ingredients in products. Kemin Industries, which began developing commercially viable processes of extracting natural chemicals from rosemary about two decades ago, is now producing natural ingredients that some of the world’s largest companies currently use to extend the shelf life of their products, such as pet foods, cereals, and skin creams. Christopher Doering, "Renewable chemicals ride demand for natural products", Gannett Washington Bureau, October 29, 2013, © USA Today/Gannett

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Walmart Partners With Portland State University Scientists To Study Green Roofs October 28, 2013: 12:00 AM EST Walmart partnered with Portland State University in Oregon to conduct research into the use of green roofs. As part of the research collaboration deal, researchers from the university’s Green Building Research Lab will collect data from the largest green roof in Portland which is on a Walmart store. Researchers also plan to install sensors and a weather station on the green roof being placed on Walmart’s Hayden Meadows store. Walmart’s biggest green roof, which is located in Chicago, is also being studied. Results of the two studies will be compared to analyze green roof performance in varying climate conditions. "Walmart turns green roofs into research labs", Sustainable Business News, October 28, 2013, © Sustainable Business.com

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Unilever Secures Research Deal With University Of Manchester October 28, 2013: 12:00 AM EST Unilever signed a long-term research collaboration deal with the University of Manchester, making the university an important partner in the consumer goods company’s research into specific fields of science. Unilever has secured the support of several strategic academic partners for its efforts to grow its business while reducing its environmental impact under the company’s Unilever Sustainable Living Plan. As part of the deal, Unilever will support the university to conduct research into sustainable consumption, process engineering, biophysics and systems biology, and various aspects of inflammation, toxicology, and hair biology. University of Manchester vice-president for research and innovation Luke Georghiou said access to university research provides Unilever a competitive advantage. "University and Unilever sign partnership agreement", The University of Manchester, October 28, 2013, © The University of Manchester

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Unilever Says Corporate Social Responsibility Among Its Top Priorities October 24, 2013: 12:00 AM EST Consumer goods company Unilever said it is taking corporate social responsibility very seriously. As one of the leading manufacturers of hundreds of brands of consumer products, Unilever can have a significant role in global efforts to promote sustainability. Leveraging its influence as one of the world’s largest media buyers, the company has created and promoted various sustainability efforts, including its Sustainable Living Plan. In Malaysia, more than 400 employees of Unilever Holdings Sdn Bhd joined the celebration of the Global Handwashing Day, encouraging Malaysians to wash their hands with soap before every meal. Unilever’s Lifebuoy brand of germ-protection soap led the celebrations as part of its “Malaysia, Jom Lebih Sihat!” campaign for health in the country. Nevash Nair, "Consumer goods company takes corporate social responsibility seriously", The Star, October 24, 2013, © Star Publications

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Solar Industry Group Recognizes L’Oréal USA As Solar Energy Champion October 24, 2013: 12:00 AM EST L’Oréal USA received the 2013 Solar Champion award from the Solar Energy Industries Association during the Power International conference and trade show held in Chicago. SEIA’s report “Solar Means Business” recognizes L’Oréal USA as one of the 20 leading companies in the United States using solar power in their facilities. L’Oréal USA has installed more than 9.7 megawatts of photovoltaic systems in its US facilities in the past 18 months, generating clean energy enough to power more than 40,000 homes for a year. Also, its solar power systems have helped eliminate the amount of carbon dioxide emissions equal to those produced by 2,433 passenger vehicles in a year. "L'Oréal USA Named One of Top US Companies Utilizing Solar Power", CSRwire, October 24, 2013, © CSRwire, LLC

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SC Johnson Reports Huge Manufacturing Waste Reduction October 24, 2013: 12:00 AM EST Consumer goods company SC Johnson reported it has reduced its global manufacturing waste by 62 percent and increased its use of renewable energy to 30 percent, according to the company’s 2013 sustainability report. As part of the company’s efforts reduce its environmental footprint, SC Johnson has invested in 10 major renewable energy initiatives worldwide during the past 10 years, including the installation of two 415-foot-tall wind turbines at its manufacturing facility. Also, the company as recycled about 8.5 million pounds of waste at its global manufacturing facility in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin, while seven of its factories now have zero landfill status. SC Johnson also released concentrated cleaners that use 63 percent less plastic than standard spray bottles. "SC Johnson 2013 Public Sustainability Report", SC Johnson, October 24, 2013, © S.C. JOHNSON & SON, INC.

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