#Sustainability #United States #PepsiCo #Purchase #pep+

PepsiCo's 2024 ESG Summary

PepsiCo has released its 2024 ESG Summary, showcasing impressive progress in its pep+ (PepsiCo Positive) initiative that prioritizes sustainability and nutrition. The report reveals that the organization is committed to improving its practices in climate, agriculture, water conservation, and packaging. Driven by the aim to lead through innovation and responsible practices, the company achieved two significant nutrition goals ahead of schedule.

Key Advancements

During the past year, PepsiCo has made notable strides towards achieving its sustainability objectives. With the company spreading regenerative agriculture and sustainable practices across 3.5 million acres—an area larger than two million football fields—PepsiCo is on course to enhance soil health and increase agricultural yields. The company’s commitment to regenerative practices aligns with its goal to expand this acreage to 10 million by 2030, equivalent to the size of Switzerland.

In terms of energy use, PepsiCo sourced 89% of the electricity requirements for its company-owned operations from renewable energy sources. This effort has led to an 18% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions relative to its 2022 baseline, marking a significant step towards climate sustainability.

Furthermore, PepsiCo made impressive achievements in water replenishment, returning over 24 billion liters of water to local watersheds, equivalent to roughly 9,600 Olympic-sized swimming pools. This marks a goal-oriented move that helps mitigate water scarcity in high-risk areas.

In its packaging efforts, the company reduced the tonnage of virgin plastic used by 5% and incorporated 15% recycled plastic in its packaging by 2024. This reduction is crucial in decreasing plastic waste and fostering a circular economy.

Nutrition Goals Surpassed

PepsiCo's commitment to health-conscious products is reflected in its nutritious offerings. By surpassing its targets for sugar and sodium reductions a full year early, the company ensured that 67% of its beverage portfolio contains fewer than 100 calories from added sugars per 12 ounces, while 77% of its convenient foods contain less than 1.3 milligrams of sodium per calorie. This demonstrates PepsiCo's dedication to delivering healthier choices while promoting responsible consumer habits.

A Continued Journey

According to Ramon Laguarta, Chairman and CEO, PepsiCo's pep+ strategy is integral to the company’s long-term vision and is not merely a sustainability framework. Instead, it embodies a transformation that influences every aspect of the business, spanning from innovation and production to marketing and distribution.

Jim Andrew, Executive Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer, echoed this sentiment, stating that the company's sustainability journey is ongoing. Although challenges persist in realizing systemic change, collaboration among businesses, governments, and civil society is essential to overcoming these hurdles.

Reflecting on this commitment, Andrew remarked, “Our progress in 2024 shows that when we embed sustainability into the heart of our company, we not only help strengthen our communities and our planet but also enhance our business resilience.”

In summary, PepsiCo's 2024 ESG Summary emphasizes the importance of sustainability within its operations, showcasing substantial progress in regenerative agriculture, renewable energy use, water replenishment, and nutrition enhancements. As the company continues to push for a sustainable future, it emphasizes that growth and environmental stewardship can coexist, ultimately benefiting shareholders, consumers, and the communities it serves.

For ongoing updates on PepsiCo’s commitment to sustainability, visit their official website.