If I ask people in the sustainability field which company this statement describes, maybe some would know it isMars.

“The company’s objective is the manufacture and distribution of food products in such a manner as to promote a mutuality of service and benefits among consumers, distributors, competitors, our direct suppliers of goods and services, governmental bodies.”

I doubt though anyone would guess that it was written in 1947. It comes from Forrest E. Mars, Sr. and reflects the unique philosophy and heritage of Mars, which has grown to become a $30 billion company, selling confectionery, pet food, and other food products worldwide.

The Mars family, which still owns the company, expanded Mars Sr.’s thoughts into the Mars Five Principles(quality, responsibility, mutuality, efficiency and freedom), which have been the compass of the company since 1983. The principals shaped Mars’ sustainability policies, which include very ambitious goals, especially with regards to Mars’ supply chain that is responsible for 60 percent of the company’s carbon footprint. For example, Mars aims to source 100 percent of some of its main materials, like coffee, cocoa and fish and seafood from certified sources in the next couple of years.

(Original article by Raz Godelnik. Continue reading here.)

Originally published on Triple Pundit, republished with kind permission.