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Seventh Generation's 2023 Impact Report Highlights Key Progress

On January 10, 2025, Seventh Generation, a leader in eco-friendly homecare products, released its 2023 Impact Report, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and progress in reducing its carbon footprint. This report outlines the brand's efforts to minimize climate-related impacts from both product use and its operations.

Ashley Orgain, Chief Impact Officer, expressed pride in the longstanding transparency that the company embodies through its reporting framework, which dates back to 2004. The report also sheds light on how the vision of Seventh Generation—to consider the impact on the next seven generations—is reflected in its diverse product offerings, business strategies, and advocacy initiatives.

Significant Milestones in Carbon Footprint Reduction

One of the key highlights from the report is the reduction of Seventh Generation’s emissions by 18% compared to the previous year and a notable drop of 4% below the 2012 baseline. The company achieved an impressive 100% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by collaborating with utility providers and making the transition to clean energy sources.

Despite the challenges posed by Scope 3 emissions, which largely stem from consumer product use (accounting for 93% of total emissions), Seventh Generation has actively engaged in its sustainability strategy. The company continues to focus on educating consumers about the environmental impact of usage and encouraging responsible product disposal.

Decarbonizing Financial Processes

Seventh Generation is not only addressing emissions from its operational processes but also making strides in its financial practices. In a landmark move, the brand became the first to disclose financed emissions, working closely with Unilever to audit and review these emissions associated with its banking relationships. This transparency sets a precedent for other companies in the industry, emphasizing the importance of accountability in financial dealings.

Advocacy for Policy Changes

In addition to internal initiatives, Seventh Generation has been proactive in leveraging its platform to advocate for significant policy changes. Through collaborations with advocacy groups in Vermont and New York, they supported the enactment of impactful legislation aimed at holding major greenhouse gas emitters accountable for funding required climate resilience strategies. Particularly notable is their support for the Climate Change Superfund Act, which places responsibility on polluters to contribute to climate action.

Kate Ogden, Head of Advocacy and Movement Building at Seventh Generation, highlighted the dual approach they maintain—progressing in carbon reduction while also influencing policy. She acknowledged the need for ongoing efforts to confront the looming climate crisis, emphasizing a commitment to holding the company and its peers to high accountability standards.

Future Directions for Sustainability

Seventh Generation is committed to maintaining leadership in sustainability and ethical business practices. Ongoing evaluations of its Climate Fingerprints will ensure the company identifies areas for significant impact, focusing on aspects such as financed emissions and sustainable resource sourcing. With a mandatory five-year review of its Science Based Climate Targets, Seventh Generation aims to recalibrate its objectives to enhance their overall climate action potential.

The mission of Seventh Generation has always been to advocate for sustainable living through effective household products that care for both homes and the planet. For over 30 years, they have upheld their commitment to protecting the environment with a wide range of eco-friendly offerings. Interested readers can explore their full impact report for deeper insights into their commitments and initiatives at Seventh Generation's website.

In conclusion, as challenges continue to arise in the face of climate change, Seventh Generation stands as a model for responsibility in the consumer goods sector, illustrating that commitment to sustainability can yield meaningful progress. Their efforts not only highlight corporate responsibility but underscore the critical role of advocacy and consumer awareness in the journey towards a sustainable future.