The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a global blueprint for addressing some of the most pressing issues facing humanity, including poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation. As the world faces increasing environmental and social challenges, the importance of sustainability has never been more apparent. At Huhtamaki, sustainability is embedded in everything we do.
As we approach SDG Flag Day on September 25, a day dedicated to raising awareness of the SDGs, we are proud to align our efforts with five key SDGs: SDG 8, SDG 12, SDG 13, SDG 6, and SDG 15, which we have identified to be most relevant to us.
Promoting decent work and economic growth: SDG 8
Huhtamaki is committed to creating an inclusive workplace that supports the well-being and development of all employees. Through the promotion of safe, fair, and equitable working conditions, we actively contribute to SDG 8, which focuses on sustained, inclusive economic growth and decent work for all.
Our commitment to human rights is embedded in our Code of Conduct and Global Human Rights Policy. In 2023, we participated in the UN Global Compact Business and Human Rights Accelerator program, which supported us in refining our approach to assessing and mitigating human rights risks across our value chain. By continually assessing our impact and improving our practices, we ensure that our operations not only respect human rights but also foster economic growth in the communities we operate in.
Ensuring responsible consumption and production: SDG 12
Sustainable consumption and production are essential to building a circular economy, and at Huhtamaki, we are at the forefront of this movement. SDG 12 calls for more responsible consumption patterns, and we are responding with innovative, sustainable packaging solutions. From recyclable to renewable or compostable packaging, we are committed to reducing environmental impacts while meeting the needs of consumers.
Nearly 60% of our products are made from fiber, and we aim to reach 100% of the wood fiber sourced from recycled or certified sustainable sources. This commitment to responsible sourcing ensures that sustainability is integrated across our entire supply chain.
Taking urgent action on climate change: SDG 13
Climate change is one of the most critical challenges of our time, and SDG 13 calls for urgent action to combat its impacts. Huhtamaki is doing its part by reducing our carbon footprint and innovating in sustainable packaging. We have set science-based targets to reduce our GHG emissions in our own operations, and we’re committed to working with our suppliers to extend our impact across the value chain.
Through responsible sourcing, 97.8% of our key suppliers adhere to our Supplier Code of Conduct, including environmental and ethical standards. We conduct regular sustainability audits and have expanded our due diligence efforts to ensure our supply chain aligns with our climate goals, driving progress on SDG 13.
Managing water sustainably: SDG 6
Water is an essential resource, and managing it responsibly is critical to both our operations and the environment. SDG 6 emphasizes the sustainable management of water resources, and Huhtamaki has implemented water management plans across our global sites, and is continuing to build up our water stewardship, especially in water-stressed regions. By identifying and controlling water-related risks, we ensure the sustainability of local ecosystems and our operations.
Our participation in the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) has strengthened our approach to water stewardship, helping us better understand and address the impacts of our operations on water resources.
Protecting life on land: SDG 15
Forests play a critical role in maintaining biodiversity and reducing climate change, and SDG 15 focuses on protecting life on land, including forests and other vital ecosystems. As a major user of fiber, Huhtamaki is committed to sustainable forest management. We source fiber from responsibly managed forests certified by organizations such as FSC® and PEFC, ensuring that we contribute to zero deforestation.
Through our work with the TNFD, we are also assessing the broader impacts of our operations on natural ecosystems. Our efforts to preserve biodiversity and protect terrestrial ecosystems align with SDG 15.
Commitment to a sustainable future
Huhtamaki is proud to contribute to the global effort to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Our focus on SDGs 8, 12, 13, 6, and 15 reflects our dedication to creating a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future. As we mark SDG Flag Day on September 25, we continue to raise awareness and take action to support these vital global goals.
Visit our sustainability page to learn more about our commitment to the SDGs and our efforts in building a sustainable future!