Food Rescue Initiatives, Environmental Milestones

PepsiCo saved over 20,000 food items from wastage in 2023 through an innovative digital initiative. Meanwhile, the 2022 Fashion Accountability Report by Remake highlighted that global clothing companies fell short in ensuring living wages for all indirect employees. Furthermore, these companies showed minimal progress in reducing their carbon footprint.

Ready for more? Here is your weekly ESG roundup!

PepsiCo Boosts Food Rescue Through Digital Platform

Unwasted, PepsiCo's food rescue digital platform, effectively saved over 20,000 food items from wastage in 2023.  This project aims to give a second life to the brand's products that, for some reason, were not consumed or could not be sold in supermarkets.  The Unwasted initiative not only contributes positively to the environment by minimizing food waste but also delivers substantial advantages to consumers by providing quality products at competitive prices and allowing them to explore new products and flavors. 

Fashion Industry Neglects Living Wages for Indirect Staff in 2022

In 2022, no clothing company fully provided living wages to all indirect employees, such as garment and supply chain workers, warehouse staff, models, and drivers, according to the 2022 Fashion Accountability Report by Remake. Moreover, the data presented revealed that only three undisclosed companies reported tangible progress in reducing their overall carbon footprint following fully approved science-based targets. 

Mexico's Conservation Milestone: 20 New Protected Areas

The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT) recently designated 20 new sites as Natural Protected Areas. This brings the total number of protected areas to 225, encompassing approximately 95 million ha throughout the country. During the current administration, 43 new sites were declared as ANPs, as promised by President López Obrador earlier this year. 

Latin America's Market Dynamics in 2024: Kantar

Kantar forecasts a dynamic 2024 in Latin America, highlighting the intersection of digitalization, sustainability, and business. The region anticipates sustained consumption recovery, reshaped market trends, and strategic investments targeting local retailers. As the landscape evolves, embracing sustainability becomes pivotal, with eco-conscious consumers wielding significant spending power, underscored Kantar. 

Risks in Mexico: Managing Change to Overcome Challenges

José Carlos Ortiz, Governance, Risk and Compliance Advisor Partner, KPMG Mexico, underscored the importance of strategic risk management to enhance growth and sustainability within any business. In this regard, KPMG’s 2023 Risks study in Mexico and Central America highlights the rising importance of ESG indicators in risk management, as 54% of the leaders surveyed consider them, with diversity and inclusion (62%) and sustainable supply chains (59%) topping the list of business priorities. “Risk management is a fundamental pillar that will allow the best-prepared companies to overcome challenges and capitalize on the opportunities that arise from them,” stressed Ortíz.

Mexico City Achieves 98% of Environmental Goals in Five Years

Mexico City has met 98.5% of its 2024 environmental goals, marking a significant turnaround for the once-polluted metropolis, reported SEDEMA. The city’s Environmental and Climate Change Program (PACC) launched five years ago, led to a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and impactful projects like rainwater harvesting systems. Moreover, urban green spaces have expanded, earning the current administration multiple awards for its environmental stewardship.

The Significance of ESG in Creating Exceptional Workplaces

Michelle Ferrari, CEO, Great Place to Work, emphasizes the growing importance of corporate responsibility and highlights the relevance of adopting an ESG agenda to address climate change and social issues. In Mexico despite a 64% adoption of ESG strategies, there is a need to elevate their perceived importance, underscores Ferrari, as best places to work prioritize social responsibility, employee well-being, and inclusivity. “ESG criteria, covering environmental, social, and governance aspects, contribute to creating excellent and socially responsible workplaces,” Ferrari stated.