Mars Sustainability Plan
Building a sustainable future
We are a global business of people and brands with a clear purpose. We believe the world we want tomorrow starts with how we do business today. It is the vision at the heart of our Sustainable in a Generation Plan - one where the planet is healthy, people and pets are thriving, and society is inclusive.
With the increasing impacts of climate change, the pandemic and social injustice, we are as committed as ever to the critical actions needed to tackle the environmental and societal threats we face through science-based actions and in support of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. We are transforming the way we work – from how we source raw materials like palm oil and cocoa, to how we fish the oceans for our pet food ingredients – to ensure every part of our operations and extended supply chains help people and the planet thrive.
At the same time, we recognize that fixing these issues is a generational challenge, which is why we are building lasting partnerships with NGOs, governments and industry, to help transform the systems that have made issues like climate change or limited incomes for smallholder farmers so pervasive and intractable.
This is a critical moment and we are working to ensure that Mars is a positive force in the world for years to come.
Our plan is built on what is RIGHT, not what is easy—it is science-based and in support of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Barry Parkin, Chief Procurement and Sustainability Officer
Healthy Planet
How we’re reducing our environmental footprint
To keep the planet healthy for people and nature, Mars follows a data-driven, scientific approach to reduce our environmental impact. Our efforts include a 2050 net zero emissions commitment, expanding our use of renewable energy, helping farmers cut water use while increasing crop yield, working to eliminate deforestation and evolving our product packaging to support a circular economy.
Thriving People
How we support individuals’ rights and livelihoods
Our business, Associates and the communities where we operate will thrive for generations to come only if we help the millions of people who contribute to our success thrive as well. We are committed to respecting human rights throughout our value chain, starting with areas where we have the most influence, and where we can have the greatest impact on people’s rights, opportunities and livelihoods via multiple programs and with key partners.
Nourishing Wellbeing
How we help people and their pets lead healthier lives
Good nutrition, health and wellbeing are essential for billions of people and pets around the world to lead happier, healthier lives. These things are also key to our growth. We use our global reach to support the wellness of Mars Associates, enhance our products’ quality and nutrition, and provide more people around the world with access to healthy meals.
Materials and Supply Chain
Our supply chain actions
We’re focusing on key high-risk supply chains to tackle deforestation and meet the big challenges that require bold action. For example, we have created a deforestation-free palm supply chain by reducing our mill partners to fewer than 100 instead of 1,500. We’re also improving traceability and empowering farmers to find more sustainable methods for growing cocoa, which is essential to our beloved chocolate brands. We have expanded our coverage of child labor monitoring and remediation systems in our cocoa supply chain, and we’re the first chocolate company to support the Living Income Differential (LID) fee enacted by Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana. We have consistently purchased cocoa with the LID to support farmers while urging others to do the same. We also support traceability of the cocoa supply chain so that we can work toward fairer compensation for smallholder cocoa farmers.
