Last week, I had the privilege of attending the United Nations Global Compact Leaders Summit in New York City. Hundreds of business leaders from around the world came together with a single purpose – to discuss how to build a new era of sustainability based on environmental and social responsibility. It was a unique opportunity to share PepsiCo’s progress towards these goals, as well as to learn from other leading companies who have embarked on similar journeys.
When I told people that I’d be attending this event, I received some confused looks. They didn’t understand why PepsiCo’s chief financial officer was representing the company at a summit focused on corporate social responsibility. I understood the source of their confusion, as topics such as environmental sustainability have traditionally been perceived as things that are separate from a company’s core business operations. At PepsiCo, however, we have a fundamentally different view.
PepsiCo is committed to Performance with Purpose, which means delivering sustainable growth by investing in a healthier future for people and our planet. The days of business results coming at the expense of environmental and social progress are over. The successful companies of tomorrow will be those who recognize the confluence of business, environmental and social objectives. That’s why Performance with Purpose is at the foundation of every aspect of PepsiCo’s business and why I – as PepsiCo’s CFO – have a very strong interest in supporting the principles of the UN Global Compact. I firmly believe that a healthier future for all people and our planet will mean a more successful future for PepsiCo.
As part of last week’s summit, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon talked about business having a key role to play in building markets that are more sustainable and inclusive. He’s absolutely right, which is why we are innovating the way we source, create, package and deliver every product PepsiCo sells so that we use far less water, land, energy and packaging. We have also pledged our support for the UN’s Millennium Development Goals, which include the eradication of extreme hunger and poverty, promotion of gender equality, and advancement of environmental sustainability.
All of these things are part of PepsiCo’s commitment to being a great citizen in every society of which we’re a part. After spending two days at the UN last week, I was impressed by how many other companies share this commitment. It’s good news for all of us.
