Nestlé has published the full "Creation of Common Value" progress report for 2019. This marks progress on Nestlé's 36 societal and environmental commitments, which are expected to be implemented by the end of 2020.
The report provides a detailed overview of Nestlé's efforts, including introducing healthier products to the market, obtaining responsible raw materials and working towards a waste-free future. The company's commitments for 2020 support the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Rob Cameron, Public Relations Manager at Nestlé, comments: "This report highlights the progress made by the company last year. We know that we still have a lot of work to do on many issues, which is why, for example, we have already made new commitments in the area of climate improvement, including the use of plastics and packaging. The coronavirus pandemic further emphasises the role of business in society and we will continue to contribute to the support of our people, suppliers, customers and consumers."
In 2019 Nestlé accelerated the transformation of its products. Last year, for example, almost 1,400 new products came onto the market, according to the specific nutritional needs of babies, children, expectant and new mothers. Nestlé continues to introduce more products containing less sugar and salt, and more vegetables, protein and essential vitamins. The range of natural products has also been expanded and organic breakfast cereals have been <
Nestlé improved the working conditions associated with land works, thus addressing the economic, social and environmental problems associated with the extraction of raw materials. This includes, among other things, the protection of workers' and children's rights, as well as the promotion of delays in deforestation processes.
Nestlé has also invested in transforming its activities as part of its ongoing efforts to secure a waste-free future. At the end of 2019, 80% of the company's production ies no longer had waste to be disposed of, or they had become "waste-free". Nestlé has exceeded its commitment to reduce the use of packaging by 140 000 tonnes between 2015 and 2020. The company is now stepping up its efforts by committing to make 100% of the packaging of the products used recyclable or reusable by 2025. At the end of 2019, 87% of Nestlé product packaging, including plastic, met these conditions.
Nestlé continued to promote social inclusion and diversity within the company. The company introduced a progressive policy, providing gender-neutral support to all employees. Gender balance is a key component of Nestlé's approach to diversity and inclusion. Progress has been made in recent years- 42% of managers are now held by women. Nestlé launched a "Gender Balance Acceleration Plan" last year to increase the proportion of women in 200 management positions from about 20% to 30% by 2022.
At the time of the release of this report, Nestlé is stepping up its global response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including by joining forces with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent.
Read the full progress report of Nestlé 'Creating Common Value' in 2019.