Since the launch of one of its first brands, Sunlight soap, Unilever has been committed to sustainability and social impact. During a time when poverty and poor sanitation were widespread, Unilever’s founders revolutionized hygiene by employing locals to produce low-cost packaged soap, ensuring both accessibility and livelihood opportunities. This set a precedent for a purpose-driven business model that continues to influence Unilever’s operations today.
In the Philippines, Unilever upholds this legacy and has been recognized as one of Asia’s Top Green Companies. Registered in 1927, the 90-year-old company has been manufacturing and distributing well-loved household brands such as Dove and Knorr, positioning itself as a leader in both corporate responsibility and environmental sustainability.
Sustainable Living Brands Driving Growth
Unilever’s global efforts to deliver value to consumers are anchored in its strong sense of purpose. The company recently reported that its Sustainable Living brands—those leading in sustainability initiatives—contributed 70% of its turnover growth last year. These brands grew 46% faster than the rest of the business, consistently outperforming Unilever’s average growth rate for the past four years.
Guided by a culture of Malasakit (genuine concern for others), Unilever actively engages its employees to Win with Purpose. The company firmly believes that when products meet social needs and help people live sustainably, brands become more relevant to consumers. Efficient management of resources, such as energy and raw materials, also lowers costs and reduces business risk, allowing for increased investment in sustainable innovation.
Commitment to the Unilever Sustainable Living Plan
All of Unilever’s sustainability efforts are guided by the Unilever Sustainable Living Plan (USLP), which envisions business growth while transforming lives through products and initiatives that unlock human potential, address health challenges, and reduce environmental impact.
With 50% of consumers demanding more sustainable products, Unilever has strengthened its commitment to sustainability by forming strategic partnerships with local and national governments, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, the private sector, and consumers. These collaborations help scale the company’s ambitious sustainability goals.
Reducing Environmental Footprint and Promoting Renewable Energy
Unilever’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint has led to concrete solutions addressing global challenges such as energy sourcing and packaging waste. The company has set an ambitious target of becoming carbon positive by 2030, sourcing 100% of its total energy needs from renewable sources by that time. Its Philippine operations are on track to meet targets for reducing water and energy consumption, as well as greenhouse gas emissions.
To tackle waste issues, Unilever has introduced local programs such as a community-based sachet recovery initiative, office and factory solid waste management programs, packaging innovations, and industry-wide collaborations. The company’s Misis Walastik (Waste-Smart Mom) program promotes sustainable plastic recycling by working with community stakeholders.
Empowering Smallholder Farmers
Beyond environmental efforts, Unilever is committed to creating a more inclusive and sustainable business by supporting smallholder farmers. The company has helped thousands of local farmers strengthen their sustainable agricultural practices, improving both their livelihoods and environmental impact.
Recognition as a Global Sustainability Leader
Unilever’s dedication to sustainability has earned it global recognition. The company was named a leader in the 2018 Personal Industry category of the Dow Jones Sustainability Index, which tracks the world’s most sustainable companies.
As part of a global network committed to making sustainability commonplace, Unilever Philippines continues to embody the principle of Winning with Purpose. At the heart of this philosophy is a shared belief that what is good for people and the planet is also good for business.
