Kimberly-Clark Professional: Building a Sustainable Future

A lot of today’s businesses are embracing a diverse array of eco-conscious practices, from recycling initiatives to energy reduction strategies. This shift reflects a growing awareness of the environmental impact of business operations, as well as the pressure from investors and customers to do more for the environment. Kimberly-Clark Professional (KCP) is committed to creating a more sustainable future for generations to come and has been finding more and more ways to increase their positive environmental impact. Their Responsible Partners program is a testament to this commitment, fostering collaboration with suppliers who share their dedication to environmental responsibility.

Sustainability has become crucial for the health of our planet and the well-being of its inhabitants. Climate change, resource depletion, and environmental pollution are just some of the challenges we face. By adopting sustainable practices, businesses can help minimize their environmental impact and contribute to a healthier planet.

For Kimberly-Clark, sustainability is not just a buzzword; it’s a core value embedded in their business model. The company recognizes that their operations have an impact on the environment and are committed to minimizing that impact wherever possible. This commitment also extends to their supply chain, where they work closely with suppliers to ensure they adhere to the same rigorous environmental standards. This is called the Responsible Partners program.

The Responsible Partners program is a rigorous vetting process that evaluates suppliers based on their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance. To qualify as a Responsible Partner program, suppliers must have at least three of the benefits below:

1. ECOLOGO® Certified: The ECOLOGO® third-party certification serves as an emblem for products adhering to stringent environmental standards. This accreditation addresses concerns of greenwashing and assures consumers that sustainability claims are validated independently.
2. Reduced CO2: Products labeled this way have reduced CO2 through improvements in production, transportation, or usage that minimize carbon emissions. Such optimization aids in the fight against climate change and reinforces an eco-conscious stance.
3. Composability: This approach alleviates landfill burden and promotes sustainable disposal practices because these products can break down into nutrient-rich compost.
4. Recycled Fiber: Selecting products made from recycled fiber is a strategic step towards reducing the demand for virgin resources. This choice helps combat issues linked to deforestation, habitat destruction, and resource depletion.
5. Compact Packaging: Efficient packaging minimizes material usage and optimizes storage and transportation without sacrificing quality and performance. By curbing excess waste and inefficiencies, businesses can make strides towards sustainable supply chain management.
6. Recyclable Materials: The incorporation of recyclable materials enables products to be collected, processed, and repurposed. This approach diverts waste from landfills and oceans, promoting a circular economy.
7. Renewable Energy: By harnessing renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, businesses can reduce their reliance on fossil fuels. This shift not only reduces a product’s carbon emissions but also contributes to a cleaner and more sustainable energy mix.
8. Responsible Transport: Minimizing the environmental impact of transportation is achieved through strategies that cut carbon emissions, optimize fuel consumption, and streamline delivery routes. This holistic approach reduces the greenhouse gas emissions footprint associated with product distribution.
9. More Efficient Formulas – Skin Care products featured in the portfolio feature foam formulations, which are more efficient than gel formulas. Foam skincare formats use just 35% the amount of liquid used compared to gel skincare formats.

Products that earn the Responsible Partners designation must have at least three sustainability benefits, making it easy to recognize that these products go above and beyond when it comes to sustainability. W.B. Mason offers a wide range of towel, tissue and skincare products that are a part of the Responsible Partners program. For instance, the SCOTT® Multi-Fold Towels bundle offers space-saving packaging. This packaging solution yields multiple benefits, including:

• Maximized Storage: It minimizes unused space, suiting businesses with limited storage.
• Reduced Shipping Costs: Packing more products lowers transportation expenses, especially for bulk shipments.
• Efficient Inventory Management: Businesses can maintain larger inventories without expanding storage.
• Improved Handling: Fewer cases to handle means reduced labor and loading times.
• Minimized Waste: Less packaging leads to reduced waste and disposal costs.

Here are few more examples of KCP products in W.B. Mason’s assortment that are a part of the Responsible Partners program:

• Scott 100% Recycled Fiber Multifold Paper Towels, White
• Scott 100% Recycled Fiber Hard Roll Paper Towels, White
• Scott Essential Green Certified Foaming Hand Soap, Unscented, Clear
• Scott Foam Hand Soap with Moisturizers, Floral Scent, Pink

Here are a few graphics from Kimberly-Clark Professional to show which criteria these items fall under, qualifying them for the Responsible Partners program:

As a result of the Responsible Partners program and the criteria suppliers must adhere to, some of the positive impacts on the planet and the environment can include:

• Reduced waste: The program incentivizes suppliers to reduce waste throughout their operations, which conserves natural resources and reduces landfill waste.
• Lower greenhouse gas emissions: By using recycled materials and minimizing energy consumption, suppliers are helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change.
• Improved water quality: Suppliers are encouraged to conserve water and use water-efficient technologies, which can help to protect water resources and improve water quality.
• Enhanced biodiversity: KCP supports suppliers who implement sustainable forestry practices and protect biodiversity.
• Improved human well-being: The program encourages suppliers to uphold fair labor practices and respect human rights, which contributes to a more just and equitable world.

KCP’s Responsible Partners program is a valuable initiative that demonstrates the company’s commitment to sustainability. By working with suppliers who share their dedication to environmental responsibility, KCP is creating a more sustainable future for generations to come.

The program’s impact on the planet and environment is undeniable. By reducing waste, conserving resources, and upholding high social standards, Kimberly-Clark Professional and their commitment to sustainability is making a positive impact in the world.

* To find more information on the Responsible Partners Program, click here