Written by: Kimberly White
Global media company Thomson Reuters is no stranger to corporate social responsibility and sustainability. Over the past decade, the company has worked to reduce its carbon footprint by streamlining its processes, systems, and locations.
In 2018, Reuters received several awards and recognition for diversity and gender inclusivity. Working Mother & AVTAR named them as one of the 100 Best Companies for Women in India while Forbes listed them as one of America’s Best Employers for Women. Additionally, Working Mother named Thomson Reuters as one of the best workplaces in their Diversity Best Practices Inclusion Index.
In honor of Earth Day, the company announced its new carbon targets.
The goal is to become carbon neutral by 2019 and have 100% of their global energy needs powered by renewable energy by 2020. The team at Thomson Reuters also expects to offset 100% of their greenhouse gas emissions by the end of this year which will have a positive impact in the major markets the company operates in.
“Earth Day is the largest and most celebrated environmental event worldwide. We are proud to be announcing today that we will be joining the list of the many companies who have made the switch to go carbon neutral. Not only is it the right thing to do from an environmental perspective, but it’s what employees and customers are asking us to do,” said Stephane Bello, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Thomson Reuters. “As a global organization, we have a shared responsibility to do business in ways that respect, protect, and benefit our customers, employees, communities, and environment.”
Over the past few years, consumers have begun to shift to a more conscientious mindset. According to a 2018 global survey conducted by Nielsen, 73% of consumers say they would change their consumption habits to reduce their environmental impact. The survey also found that 81% of respondents felt strongly that companies should help improve the environment.
“Facing rapid urbanization and a growing disparity between classes, many people in emerging markets are experiencing the harsh reality of pollution in this post-modern industrial age. As a result, sustainability has become an urgent opportunity for companies to connect with consumers who are excited about change.” said Regan Leggett, Executive Director, Thought Leadership and Foresight, Global Markets.
