The policy
While we can achieve much within our own business, we believe that sustainable development is best pursued through partnership. We therefore work towards the improvement of knowledge, the dissemination of best practice and, where appropriate, common programmes of action. We are a signatory to the ICC Charter for Sustainable Development.
Details
Unilever is committed to meeting the needs of customers and consumers in an environmentally sound and sustainable manner, through continuous improvement in environmental performance in all our activities.
Accordingly, Unilever aims are to
- ensure the safety of its products and operations for the environment
- exercise the same concern for the environment wherever we operate
- develop innovative products and processes which reduce levels of environmental impact and develop methods of packaging which combine effective protection and presentation with the conservation of raw materials and convenient, environmentally appropriate disposal
- reduce waste, conserve energy and explore opportunities for re-use and recycling.
To achieve these, Unilever will
- assess the environmental impacts of all its business activities from research, through manufacture, distribution, use and disposal
- apply more stringent criteria than those required by law when we believe this to be appropriate
- use standards of environmental impact assessment which are robust, scientifically sound and generally acceptable within the present state of knowledge, at the same time attempting to develop superior methods and to improve on current practice
- develop and apply systems of environmental management, as part of day-to-day operational practice and on-going management reporting and control procedures
- encourage our suppliers to develop environmentally superior processes and ingredients and co-operate with other members of the supply chain to improve overall environmental performance
- work with industry bodies, government agencies, business partners and other concerned organisations, to promote environmental care, increase knowledge and disseminate best practice
- remain alert and responsive to developing issues, knowledge and public concerns.
Unilever will communicate actively to
- provide whatever information and advice is necessary on the safe use and disposal of our products.
- ensure that employees are aware of the Company's environmental policy and motivated to apply it; are aware of their own responsibilities and given the support and training necessary to fulfil them.
- publish relevant and meaningful information on environmental performance and progressively introduce a more comprehensive reporting system.
