Kenvue’s inaugural Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) report marks a significant step in its climate action strategy. The report provides insights into how the company is addressing climate-related risks and opportunities while advancing sustainability goals under its Healthy Lives Mission.
“Climate change is one of nine priority topics within our Healthy Lives Mission environmental, social, and governance strategy,” Pamela Gill-Alabaster, Global Head of ESG and Sustainability at Kenvue, told CosmeticsDesign.
“The TCFD report provides useful information for our stakeholders to better understand how Kenvue can respond – and is responding – to climate change,” she added.
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions
Kenvue has made notable progress in reducing its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, cutting Scope 1 and 2 emissions by approximately 26% since 2020. The company has committed to reducing these emissions by 42% by 2030, with strategies focused on renewable electricity, energy efficiency, and decarbonization initiatives.
“Sourcing renewable electricity has been a key driver,” Gill-Alabaster explained. “As of December 31, 2023, renewable electricity covered approximately 65% of our electricity usage, supported by 18 onsite solar-powered systems in 12 countries and multiple renewable energy procurement agreements.”
Progress in renewable electricity
Kenvue’s transition to renewable energy is central to its sustainability efforts. New onsite solar installations in locations such as Sezanne, France, and Mandra, Greece, contributed 1.75 MW and 0.186 MW of renewable energy, respectively, in 2024.
Additionally, offsite renewable electricity agreements, including virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs) and direct power purchase agreements (PPAs), have expanded the company’s renewable energy footprint globally.
“All these steps are helping us advance progress toward the goal of 100% of our electricity use in operations derived from renewable sources by 2030,” Gill-Alabaster said.
Addressing Scope 3 emissions
With Scope 3 emissions representing approximately 90% of Kenvue’s total emissions, the company has prioritized supplier engagement to achieve its climate goals. Purchased goods and services account for 71% of these emissions, while upstream transportation and distribution contribute 15%.
“To advance our transition toward net zero, we need to help our value chain partners set and achieve their own science-based climate goals,” Gill-Alabaster stated. “As of December 31, 2023, 21% of our suppliers, by emissions, had science-based targets, with a goal to reach 75% by 2028.”
Innovations in sustainable packaging
In packaging, Kenvue has made strides toward sustainability, with 71% of its portfolio now featuring recycle-ready or refillable designs. The company now incorporates design-for-recycling guidelines informed by the Consumer Goods Forum Golden Design Rules and Ellen MacArthur Foundation into its product development processes.
“We’re proud of the progress that we’ve made in advancing our packaging to be more user-friendly and better for the planet,” Gill-Alabaster noted. “One area we will continue to prioritize for innovation is refillable packaging, as consumer acceptance grows and usability and environmental benefits are demonstrated.”
Linking human and environmental health
Kenvue’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its operations to its product design and development, emphasizing the connection between human and environmental health. The company uses tools like its patent-pending Sustainable Innovation Profiler to evaluate new products against its Healthy Lives Mission commitments.
“Human health is inseparably linked to environmental health,” Gill-Alabaster explained. “Our products are our opportunity to not only drive healthier lives but also a healthier planet.”
Looking ahead, Kenvue is integrating climate considerations across its operations, supply chain, and product design to build resilience and address climate-related risks, such as rising raw material costs and potential carbon pricing.
“By developing innovative product designs that require fewer materials, identifying alternative materials, and optimizing supply chain efficiency, we can better manage costs and navigate price volatility,” Gill-Alabaster concluded. “Simultaneously, we are exploring climate-related opportunities as part of our business strategy.”
These advancements highlight actionable strategies for manufacturers and suppliers to reduce emissions, optimize supply chains, and innovate packaging designs that resonate with environmentally conscious consumers. By aligning with the broader industry shift toward sustainability, stakeholders can enhance their market competitiveness, address regulatory demands, and meet the increasing expectations of both customers and end-users for greener, more responsible products.
