Colgate-Palmolive is accelerating its efforts to reduce carbon emissions throughout its global supply chain, aiming to achieve net zero carbon goals. The company has identified that around 80% of its emissions from purchased goods and services come from sourcing ingredients and packaging. As a result, supplier involvement has become essential for Colgate’s climate strategy.
To address this, Colgate is providing extensive climate education for its global procurement teams. Staff receive training on carbon targets and gain greater awareness of the environmental impact linked to the materials they buy. Additionally, the company has appointed climate champions in each procurement division to promote sustainable practices throughout the supply chain.
Colgate is also working closely with its suppliers, setting clear expectations for environmental responsibility. Suppliers are encouraged to set public emissions reduction targets and report progress through the Carbon Disclosure Project. The company also asks suppliers to share ideas for carbon reduction, such as choosing low-carbon materials and supporting regenerative agriculture. Targeted suppliers are expected to develop roadmaps to decarbonise all aspects of their operations.
Beyond environmental goals, Colgate’s responsible sourcing program is built on four main pillars: protecting the environment, ensuring ethical labor practices, upholding health and safety standards, and maintaining strong business integrity. These principles are codified in Colgate’s Third-Party Code of Conduct, which adopts standards from major international human rights and labor organizations. All suppliers and partners must apply these rules in their own operations and to subcontractors.
Colgate enforces its standards by screening and regularly monitoring third parties for compliance with watchlists, sanctions, and regulations. If a supplier does not cooperate in fixing problems, the company may add them to a ‘No Buy List.’ This approach underscores Colgate-Palmolive’s dedication to sustainable and ethical business practices as it pursues its net zero objectives.
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