The business landscape has rapidly transformed toward sustainability over the years, with increasing focus on circularity. The advantages of integrating sustainable strategies in business encompass social impact, brand reputation, operational efficiency, and risk mitigation, among others. Recognizing that social responsibility and strategic growth go hand in hand in today’s economy, companies around the world are accelerating their sustainability journeys, including setting targets to achieve net zero emissions.

In 2020, Nestlé launched its Net Zero Roadmap that laid out its plans to reach net zero by 2050. The following year, Nestlé Philippines declared its own local net zero commitments in line with this global initiative, dedicating its efforts to transforming operations, shaping a waste-free future, and sourcing responsibly.

Central to all these is the power of collaboration that has led to several strategic partnerships and pioneering programs between Nestlé Philippines and government and industry stakeholders. Last April 16, it convened retailers, key accounts, and partners from the public and private sectors at The Pivot: The Road to a Net Zero Future to share insights, solutions, and connections in advancing sustainability goals and reducing environmental impact.

“Sustainability for us at Nestle has never been separate from growth. We source our ingredients from nature, therefore protecting and caring for our natural resources means protecting our ability to nourish Filipino families—today and for generations to come. That is not just advocacy. That is good business,” said Mauricio Alarcon, CEO of Nestlé Philippines. “Every industry has a role. Government, private sector, suppliers, consumers—we all must pivot. Let me emphasize: collective action is not a nice-to-have; it is the only way forward. No company, no government, no single sector can reach Net Zero alone.”

SVP & Head of Corporate Affairs of Nestlé Philippines Jose Uy III shared the company’s best practices and net zero milestones in climate-resilient manufacturing & operations, waste reduction, recycling & circular packaging, and sustainable sourcing of raw materials.

Among other notable feats, its local manufacturing sites, administrative office, and distribution centers in the Philippines run on 100% renewable electricity. It is also the first multinational fast-moving consumer goods company in the country to collect and responsibly divert as much plastic packaging as it puts into the market. Lastly, it procures 100% Responsibly Sourced green coffee beans for its products while driving initiatives to promote regenerative agricultural practices to local farmers.

“We have come a long way in our net zero journey at Nestle Philippines, reaching goals ahead of targets and staying on track with progress. As we continue putting sustainability at the heart of our business, we are hopeful that through our programs and innovations, we’ll be able to make an even bigger difference for our consumers and the planet,” he said.

This was followed by informative sessions that imparted actionable insights into how businesses and organizations can better integrate sustainable solutions in their operations, particularly those focused on logistics sustainability, responsible sourcing, and waste management. The sessions were led by Mr. Dennis Ng, CEO of Mober;. Elise Veloso, AVP for Sustainability of Jollibee Foods Corporation and Mr. Francis Paul Bayan, Sustainability Manager of Robinsons Retail Holdings, Inc., respectively.

The speakers also joined the panel discussion together with Director IV Joshua Joseph Rodriguez of the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

Another highlight of The Pivot was the supplier discovery sessions where solution providers shared their innovative sustainability offerings to attendees who are looking for partners in their net zero journey. Participating suppliers presented their expertise in renewable electricity, sustainable logistics, and waste management across three breakout rooms, while one was dedicated to net zero roadmap consultation and refining.

Nestlé Philippines remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainability and environmental leadership as it continues to help build a healthier, more sustainable future for all Filipinos.