World Environment Day: Advocating Sustainability in Travel Retail
Shiseido Travel Retail recently concluded the second instalment of Shiseido Dialogue: Journeys of Beauty, a quarterly discussion series aimed at bringing outside-in perspectives that foster learning and inspire action among Shiseido employees. To mark World Environment Day this year, the session focused on sustainable practices in the travel retail industry and the vital role we can all play in protecting our planet for future generations.
While moderating this session, I had the honor to hear from a distinguished panel of experts who shared their perspectives on sustainability and how their respective organizations are leading the charge towards a greener future. The panelists included:
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Shiseido’s Commitment to Sustainability
Since its founding in 1872, Shiseido has held a deep respect for people, society, and nature. Our mission, BEAUTY INNOVATIONS FOR A BETTER WORLD, is embodied in our 2030 vision to realize a sustainable world where everyone can enjoy a lifetime of happiness through the power of beauty.
?We create social value by advancing Strategic Actions under our Society and Environment pillars. Under our environment pillar, Shiseido’s goals drive three Strategic Actions in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals:
?We view sustainability as a continuous process, mindset, and discipline. By embracing this mindset, we see sustainability as an opportunity to create differently, drive innovation, and create value.
?In travel retail, we aim to inspire diverse travelers to rediscover beauty in travel. We hope to do this by drawing on Shiseido’s rich history in R&D, expertise in skin beauty and wellness, and meeting travelers’ needs for innovative and sustainable beauty.
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Key Insights from Our Panel
Our dialogue session offered a wealth of insights and best practices for advancing sustainability within the travel retail industry and in our personal lives. Here are some key takeaways from our speakers:
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Reducing Environmental Footprint
Samantha elaborated on Diageo’s ‘Spirit of Progress’ sustainability strategy, which addresses the most critical environmental, social, and governance (ESG) elements for their business. A notable initiative is the removal of cardboard gift boxes from their premium scotch whisky portfolio, a move expected to reduce over 183 million cardboard boxes. ?Diageo’s ‘pioneer grain-to-glass sustainability’ efforts were also highlighted – covering different aspects of sustainability, including carbon reduction, water conservation, and sustainable packaging. This approach ensures that every stage of their production process, from the raw materials used to the final product packaging, minimizes environmental impact.
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Leading with Sustainable Choices
Saskia presented Gebr. Heinemann’s sustainability strategy, which comprises 4 main pillars Environment, Social, Governance and as a special feature Responsible Value Chain due to its intermediate position as a retailer. The strategy is aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and focuses on nine material topics: Climate Action, Environmental Protection, Resource & Waste Management, Diversity & Equal Opportunities, Occupational Health & Safety, Ethical Business Culture, Supplier Relationships, Human Rights in Supply Chain, and Sustainable Product Experience. She emphasized the importance of educating travelers about sustainable products, including eco-friendly packaging and responsibly sourced ingredients. Heinemann's commitment to providing transparent information helps travelers make informed, sustainable choices, thereby supporting the overall goal of reducing the environmental footprint of the travel retail industry.
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Evolving with Systemic Changes
Su-E from The Nature Conservancy discussed emerging sustainability trends in the travel and retail sectors. To her, while travel retail epitomizes ‘optional luxury consumption’ and poses sustainability challenges, it also holds potential to drive positive change. Businesses have the responsibility to think big and drive system shifts towards sustainable value creation. Through innovation and education, companies can empower consumers with the tools to make responsible choices, thereby addressing environmental challenges. To change systems as well, partnerships with various stakeholders are key.
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Power of Small Wins in Our Daily Lives
Finally, our panelists also reminded us that our daily actions can bring ripple effects on the environment and these reminders deeply resonated with me:
- Samantha prompted us on our personal waste footprint, with practical examples, such as using reusable containers for takeout and coffee, illustrating how small, consistent actions can lead to substantial waste reduction.
- Saskia emphasized the significance of everyday choices, such as opting for public transportation or biking instead of driving, making mindful shopping decisions, and proper waste recycling.
- Su-E summed it up best that a sustainable lifestyle will likely require a dramatic change to our current lifestyle. It is not something that can happen overnight. Rather, it is a series of small, meaningful, sustained changes in your lifestyle over time.
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Looking Ahead
As we continue to advocate for sustainability in travel retail, I am inspired by the dedication and innovation of our partners and colleagues. By learning, shifting our mindsets and integrating sustainable actions into our ways of working and personal routines, we can collectively make a significant difference.
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Communications x Tech x Social Impact. PRovoke Top 25 Innovators. Certified Colourist.
4 个月Thank you Vincent for leading this important topic for us. So much to learn from our experts. My little action is to use reusable cups where possible for my local tea!