Colgate-Palmolive has issued a "Policy on No Deforestation," including a pledge to achieve the full traceability of its palm oil supply back to the plantation by 2015. The policy outlines commitments to responsibly source the forest commodities of pulp and paper, palm oil and derivatives, soy and soy oil, and beef tallow. This is an integral part of the company's strategy to combat climate change and biodiversity loss. Further, the company has joined the Consumer Goods Forum (CGF), which pledges to mobilize resources to help achieve zero net deforestation by 2020.
"Our values of caring, global teamwork and continuous improvement are the foundation of our sustainability commitments," said Ian Cook, chairman, president and CEO of Colgate-Palmolive, in a press statement.
The policy details specific requirements for the sourcing of forest commodities, including obtaining verification that pulp and paper materials from high priority countries have little risk of being derived from controversial sources. In addition, the company will increase its purchasing of physical certified sustainable palm oil and palm kernel oil where possible each year, and continuing to purchase GreenPalmCertificates to cover the remaining percentage of requirements, gradually phasing out the need for the purchase each year.
According to the company, in consultation with key stakeholders such as Greenpeace, Colgate developed this policy to communicate its commitment on this critical issue. The company will work closely with customers, suppliers, non-governmental organizations and other key stakeholders to increase awareness and commitment to the new policy and to build the capability to achieve the 2015-2020 targets.
