Unilever’s Supplier Climate Programme, launched in 2021, has been instrumental in driving climate action within its supply chain. The programme targets approximately 300 suppliers, which account for around 44% of Unilever’s Scope 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. These emissions are associated with raw materials, ingredients, and packaging.
The Impact of the Supplier Climate Programme
The Climate Transition Action Plan (CTAP) suggests that the Supplier Climate Programme could be the most significant step towards achieving Unilever’s science-based targets for reducing Scope 3 GHG emissions by 2030. With 63% of Unilever’s total emissions within the scope of its net zero ambition coming from raw materials, ingredients, and packaging, the programme is crucial in helping suppliers calculate and share the footprint of the materials they sell.
The Role of Suppliers in the Programme
Unilever’s Chief Procurement Officer, Willem Uijen, highlighted the progress made through the Supplier Climate Programme. By the end of 2024, the programme aims to engage around 300 key suppliers, providing them with the necessary tools and guidance to accelerate their climate journeys. Companies like Weener Plastics and Ball Corporation, both packaging solution providers for Unilever, are part of the programme and have shared their product carbon footprint (PCF) data, enabling Unilever to track their progress in reducing the climate impact of their materials.
Looking Ahead
Unilever’s procurement team is now equipped with the knowledge to integrate emissions reduction into their commercial strategies effectively. The focus for the future is on developing partnerships with select suppliers and shaping roadmaps for priority materials with the most significant GHG reduction opportunities. Stella Constantatos, Lead, noted that more suppliers are accelerating their climate actions, helping Unilever build a more accurate picture of the climate impact in its supply chain.
