12.07.21
International nonprofit CDP has included Kao Corporation in its prestigious ‘A List’ across three categories for the second year in a row.
Kao, a leading manufacturer of personal care, household, and cosmetics products, received the highest triple-A score for its sustainability initiatives involving climate change, forests, and water security. Of the 12,000 firms evaluated by a global survey of businesses, Kao was one of only 14 selected across the categories.
Kao has been included in the Climate Change “A List” for the third time; the Forests “A List” for the second time; and the Water Security “A List” for the fifth time.
“Receiving a triple-A score in CDP’s rankings two years in a row is a great honor and is a huge motivation for Kao to push even further to build and grow a purposeful business and help people live a more sustainable lifestyle, a Kirei Lifestyle,” said Dave Muenz, executive officer of ESG at Kao Corporation.
In April 2019, Kao launched its ESG strategy—the Kirei Lifestyle Plan—which incorporates 19 key leadership actions. By integrating ESG into the core of its company management, Kao will drive business growth and better serve consumers and society through its enhanced products and services.
The inclusion of Kao in the Climate Change, Forests, and Water Security “A Lists” is a result of efforts being made across its value chain. Kao will further its actions in decarbonization, committing to 1.5 degrees scenario carbon reduction targets, as well as joining RE100.
Taking the Lead on Environmental Transparency
Acknowledging the challenges that exist in its palm oil supply chain, Kao has launched the SMILE program designed to support smallholder plantation farmers to increase their yield and improve their living standards, as well as alleviating the pressure for deforestation.
In regards to water security, Kao continues to pursue its ‘eco together’ approach in which it works with stakeholders including consumers, business partners, and society in order to reduce water use through its products with water-saving features powered by its proprietary technologies. The key, however, has been to conduct and maximize scenario analysis relating to climate change, forests, and water security by identifying the risks and opportunities, while integrating plans and actions into the business strategy.
Said Paul Simpson, CEO of CDP, “Taking the lead on environmental transparency and action is one of the most important steps businesses can make, even more so in the year of COP26 and the IPCC’s Sixth Assessment Report. The scale of the risk to businesses from climate change, water insecurity and deforestation can no longer be ignored, and we know the opportunities of action far outweigh the risks of inaction. Leadership from the private sector is essential for securing global ambitions for a net-zero, nature positive and equitable world. Our A List celebrates those companies who are preparing themselves to excel in the economy of the future by taking action today.”