Unipex, a raw materials distributor, initiated its CSR approach more than 10 years ago, aware for a long time of the need to commit to a more planet-friendly business. It was therefore "natural" for Unipex to join all French companies already committed to the fight against climate change, via the "French Business Climate Pledge". This collective initiative aims to mobilize more and more French economic players and their subsidiaries to take concrete action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Patrice Barthelmes, President of Unipex, comments: "Our convictions for the ecological transition are certain and our commitments even stronger today! Unipex is very happy to be a player in this change through this initiative."
Inspired by the American "Business Climate Pledge" model, this French climate manifesto brings together nearly 300 multinationals and SMEs from a variety of sectors: aviation, steel, banking and insurance, real estate, pharmaceuticals, etc. Launched by the Medef in 2015 on the occasion of the Cop21, the Climate Pledge aims to demonstrate the tangible commitment of companies in the ecological transition. While the movement had around 100 signatories in 2017, it is now also supported by the college of sustainable development directors, companies for the environment (EpE) or even the Global compact and aims to rally at least 1,000 members.
"In a context where extreme climate events are multiplying on all continents, the +1.5°C limit is a reality. The commitment and action of companies to mitigate climate change are essential.the company says.
Unipex, aware of the climate issues related to its transport activities, has been deploying a convincing environmental approach for more than eight years, rated B by the Climate Disclosure Project (CDP), i.e. the best in its category, and rated Gold by Ecovadis in 2020 for the third time.
According to statistics, transportation, with 137 Mt CO2 eq, has remained the most emitting sector of greenhouse gases since 1998. In 2018, transportation accounted for 31 % of national GHG emissions, but is now decreasing thanks to improved energy performance and lower CO2 content of vehicle fuels.
"We want to make CSR a differentiating criterion for Unipex, bringing significant added value to its partners.says Jean Mazeres, General Manager of Sourcing Unipex.
With an objective of reducing its GHG emissions by 20 % on its scopes 1 and 2 by the end of 2021, Unipex dedicates a large part of its CSR approach to the "Planet" pillar and to the performance of its carbon balance, which includes scope 3. Its suppliers request support from the company. Unipex benefits from the recognition of its customers such as L'Oréal, with whom a constructive collaboration is developing on the traceability of raw materials.
