PepsiCo downgrades its sustainability ambitions

PepsiCo has revised some of its key climate, water, and packaging commitments, citing a lack of investment in cleaner technologies and support from policymakers as reasons for the changes. While the company has made progress in areas like regenerative agriculture, other targets have been scaled back due to slow progress in sustainability policies and technology investments.

The company’s emissions reduction targets have been adjusted, with a new baseline year of 2022. The goals align with limiting global temperature increases and have been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative. In packaging, PepsiCo has updated its targets for virgin plastic and recycled content, reflecting industry-wide shifts in sustainability commitments.

Despite facing challenges in achieving its goals, PepsiCo remains committed to sustainability efforts in areas like water efficiency. The company has met some targets ahead of schedule but has adjusted others to be more realistic given the current business climate. Jim Andrew, Chief Sustainability Officer, emphasized the need for broader support and policy changes to drive progress in sustainability initiatives.