Nestlé Philippines is among companies accelerating this transition, emphasizing collaboration as key to reducing environmental impact while sustaining business performance.
The company recently convened retailers, key accounts, and partners from both the public and private sectors for “The Pivot: The Road to a Net Zero Future,” held on April 16.
The event served as a platform to share insights, strengthen partnerships, and explore solutions to advance sustainability goals across industries.
Collective action
Nestlé Philippines CEO Mauricio Alarcon said sustainability is deeply embedded in the company’s growth strategy, not treated as a separate agenda.
“Sustainability for us at Nestlé has never been separate from growth. We source our ingredients from nature, therefore protecting and caring for our natural resources means protecting our ability to nourish Filipino families—today and for generations to come,” Alarcon said.
He emphasized that achieving net zero requires joint action across sectors. “No company, no government, no single sector can reach Net Zero alone,” he said.
Nestlé launched its global Net Zero Roadmap in 2020, outlining its target to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
A year later, Nestlé Philippines aligned with this initiative, committing to transform its operations, reduce waste, and promote responsible sourcing locally.
Sustainability gains
Jose Uy III, senior vice president and head of corporate affairs, highlighted the company’s progress in climate-resilient operations, waste reduction, and sustainable sourcing.
Among its milestones, Nestlé Philippines’ manufacturing sites, offices, and distribution centers now operate on 100 percent renewable electricity.
The company has also become the first multinational fast-moving consumer goods firm in the country to collect and responsibly divert as much plastic packaging as it places on the market.
In addition, Nestlé Philippines sources 100 percent responsibly sourced green coffee beans while promoting regenerative agricultural practices among local farmers.
“We have come a long way in our net zero journey, reaching goals ahead of targets and staying on track with progress,” Uy said.
Industry insights
The event also featured discussions on practical approaches to sustainability in logistics, sourcing, and waste management. Speakers included Mober CEO Dennis Ng, Jollibee Foods Corp. sustainability AVP Elise Veloso, and Robinsons Retail sustainability manager Francis Paul Bayan.
They were joined by Department of Transportation Director IV Joshua Joseph Rodriguez in a panel discussion on advancing sustainability across sectors.
A supplier discovery session highlighted solutions in renewable energy, sustainable logistics, and waste management, allowing businesses to explore partnerships that could support their own net zero efforts.
Nestlé Philippines said it remains committed to sustainability and environmental leadership as it continues to integrate responsible practices into its operations and value chain, aiming to contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future for Filipinos. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
