CHARTING THE PATH TO A SUSTAINABLE 2024 AND BEYOND
As we stride further into the 21st century, let’s reflect on the pivotal discussions and developments of the past year, which will shape the trajectory of sustainability in 2024 and beyond. Climate change is at the forefront of sustainability discussions. We kicked off last year with the publishing of the World Economic Forum’s 2023 Top 10 Risks Report and, although the top short-term risk for 2023 was “cost of living”, it was closely followed by “natural disasters and extreme weather events”. Yet, more noteworthy was that the top four long-term risks were all intricately linked to “climate change” and “biodiversity and ecosystem collapse”.
On a positive note, #Cop 28 closed off the year with a number of significant outcomes including agreement on financing for loss and damage as well as a commitment to transition away from fossil fuels.
Woolworths agrees that climate change and biodiversity and ecosystem collapse are major crises, and we are constantly looking at new practices and technology to reduce our carbon footprint. This has translated into various actions.
One of these is our Farming for the Future programme which works closely with our food producers to reduce their carbon footprint and foster a resilience to climate change and shifting weather patterns.
Last year we celebrated our 15-year partnership with WWF South Africa, which recognises the inherent business risk in nature loss. Going forward, the next phase of our partnership is aimed at redefining the ways in which we interact with nature, striving for systemic changes with a broad-reaching impact.
The persistent challenge of load-shedding is unfortunately not going to dim. But it will continue to encourage the growth of renewable energy as alternatives and options become more accessible and affordable.
Last year, working in partnership with DSV & Everlectric, we rolled out 41 electric delivery vehicles for our online shopping deliveries. This equates to the majority of our deliveries in Gauteng and Cape Town, and on an annual basis has the potential to save over 400,000kg of tailpipe carbon emissions.
To power the vans, electricity is sourced as far as possible from renewable sources by utilising DSV’s extensive solar infrastructure at their Cape Town and Gauteng facilities.
Last year, also as part of our commitment to reduce carbon emissions, we unveiled our first sustainably powered refrigeration trailer. Through a specially adapted axle, kinetic energy is converted into electricity, powering the refrigeration unit. This innovative technology offers tractor-independent, 100% electric cooling for the trailer using free and sustainable power, resulting in zero trailer carbon emissions.
Heading into 2024, climate change, biodiversity loss, plastic management and energy will continue to dominate sustainability discussions. Global climate agreements and collaborative efforts within businesses are crucial in the collective mission to reduce carbon emissions.
But let’s not forget that beyond the environmental considerations, the ethical facet of sustainability is also paramount. We believe that progressing social cohesion is a business imperative, because a divided society is not a good foundation for a sustainable business.
Last year the Woolworths Holdings Group became a foundational member of Ethical Trading Initiatives (ETI). ETI is an alliance of companies, trade unions and NGOs which work closely together to collectively promote respect for workers’ rights in supply chains.
The robust sustainability and ethical discussions of 2023 have set the stage for a transformative year in 2024. As we embrace the trends and challenges of 2024, it’s essential for individuals, businesses, and governments to commit to sustainable practices and work together to create a more resilient, planet-positive and environmentally responsible future.