With the increasing impacts of climate change, the pandemic and social injustice, Mars is committed to the critical actions needed to tackle the environmental and societal threats we all face through science-based actions and in support of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

“Since we launched the multi-billion dollar Mars Sustainable in a Generation Plan in 2017, we have made progress to transform how we do business. We’re working to improve the lives of people in communities where we source materials, as well as the lives of our Associates, customers and pets. Facing unprecedented challenges created during the COVID-19 pandemic, our Associates and business quickly shifted to new ways of working toward our ambitious, science-based goals”, it is stated on the company's website.

Healthy planet

To keep the planet healthy for people and nature, Mars follows a data-driven, scientific approach to reduce our environmental impact.

The company’s efforts include a 2050 net zero emissions commitment, expanding the use of renewable energy, helping farmers cut water use while increasing crop yield, working to eliminate deforestation and evolving product packaging to support a circular economy.

In the latest report, the company stated that it has seen a 6.1% reduction in greenhouse emissions, and the goal is to reduce total greenhouse emissions across the value chain by 27% by 2025 and to achieve net zero by 2050.

“We’re reducing our total environmental impact in line with what science says is necessary to keep the planet healthy: cutting greenhouse gas emissions, expanding our use of renewable energy, conserving water and land, and eliminating packaging waste from the environment. We’re committed to achieving net zero emissions throughout our full value which will require our partners and suppliers to also make drastic reductions to their climate footprint”, say Mars representatives.

Support for the people’s lives and livelihoods

Mars is committed to respecting human rights throughout its value chain, starting with areas where the company has the most influence, and where it can have the greatest impact on people’s rights, opportunities and livelihoods via multiple programs and with key partners.

“We are committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of 1 million people across our value chain by 2030. Our programs increase income for smallholder farmers; advance respect for human rights in our factories, fisheries and farms; and expand access to capital for women. In addition to these efforts, we also deliver emergency response and recovery aid to people who need it most”, is also stated in the latest sustainability report.

Transforming packaging

According to the latest data in the sustainability report Mars published, 20% of packaging in the company’s portfolio is reusable, recyclable or compostable. Mars’ goal is to transform 100% of its portfolio into reusable, recyclable or compostable packaging.

At the same time, 43% of packaging is designed for recycling and the company wants to redesign the packaging to fit infrastructure that exists today or is likely to exist in the near future.

One of the greatest accomplishments is that 2,868 metric tons of plastic were removed from packaging, and Mars wants to optimize the packaging in order to eliminate unnecessary materials and reduce virgin plastic usage by 30%.

One of the largest objectives Mars announced for 2023 is to achieve 100% of the cocoa it uses from responsible and traceable sources.