How Asahi brews sustainability into their business

Driven by this sustainability agenda, the company has adopted the “Planet Positive” tagline to represent its ambitious vision of how the world could look in 2050.

The organisation says it is dedicated to reducing its environmental impact, through actions such as reducing its carbon emissions to fight climate change, reducing packaging waste, sourcing agricultural raw materials sustainably and conserving water resources.

In an ardent response to the pressing challenge posed by climate change, the group has set a target of achieving zero carbon emissions by 2050. Demonstrating their heightened resolve, the organisation has recently accelerated efforts to reduce its scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by 70 per cent by 2030, compared to 2019 levels.

To achieve this ambitious objective, Asahi Group is taking proactive steps, including embracing a transition to renewable energy sources, investing in high-efficiency technologies and implementing innovative manufacturing processes.

As one of the largest beverage manufacturers worldwide, Asahi Group recognises the importance of reducing the amount of plastic it uses. The conglomerate has vowed to transition all PET bottles to environmentally conscious materials, such as biomass and recycled materials, by 2030. The firm is examining the development of eco-friendly materials and sales methods that do not use plastic containers or packaging while minimising waste across the whole organisation.

With the mounting pressure imposed by climate change on farmers, the importance of sustainability across the entire supply chain is steadily increasing.

The company’s sustainability strategy sees it working closely with farmers and partners to encourage the development and practice of sustainable agriculture and secure the stable sourcing of raw materials.

Prioritising sustainable farming practices also allows the company to support endeavours that boost biodiversity and foster soil integrity. Katsuki highlights that nurturing robust partnerships with farmers in this way can help safeguard the sustainability of the supply chain while positively impacting local communities.

He adds that, in response to the urgent global challenge of water scarcity, the organisation is striving to reduce water consumption to 3.2 cubic metres per kilolitre or less by 2030. In April 2023, Asahi Group signed the CEO Water Mandate, a global initiative established by the United Nations Global Compact that supports corporate development of water sustainability through water use targets and community cooperation.

Recognising conservation efforts

In December last year, Asahi participated in the 15th Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP15) in Montreal, Canada.

During the gathering, Asahi showcased how the group-owned Asahi Forest — a managed forest in Hiroshima Prefecture — has contributed to conserving biodiversity in the region.

“The Asahi Forest has been protected by employees for more than 80 years,” says Katsuki. “The company's forests comprise planted and natural forests.”

“We’re balancing forestry efficiency and biodiversity conservation by promoting mixed forests with conifers and broad-leaved trees,” Katsuki continues. “Rich biodiversity is made possible through proper forest management.”

A vision for a sustainable society

As Katsuki contemplates the future of the Asahi Group, he reflects on the significance of going beyond corporate mission statements.

“People often talk about their vision and values first and foremost,” he says, "but rather than solely discussing how we envision ourselves, it is also important to consider the future vision of an ideal society and align one’s stance and actions with the needs of society. This broader perspective allows us to contribute meaningfully to the betterment of society and ensures that our values and actions are in line with the collective well-being.”

“I feel that sustainability is the primary concern of all employees, both young and old, around the world. We need to deal with these problems as if they were our own. Because sustainability is about all of us.”

• This content was paid for by Asahi and produced in partnership with the Financial Times Commercial department. The article was originally published in the Financial Times in July 2023.