The global food crisis has grown by 20% with 828 million people suffering from hunger today, according to the United Nations (UN). The combination of three factors helped worsen an already critical scenario: The effects of the pandemic on the supply chain, extreme weather events, and the war in Ukraine. Brazil is back on the Hunger Map with 60 million people suffering from food insecurity, while Latin America has regressed 20 years in the fight against hunger. In addition to humanitarian actions, governments and companies are being called to prioritize initiatives that encourage the production, supply, and sustainable consumption of nutritious food that is both more affordable and accessible.
Brands and Causes
Our Vision: Even if the focus of a communications campaign is not directly linked to socio-environmental issues, the most impactful actions are those that combine brand growth and a narrative immersed in meaning, purpose, and transformation.
Our Reading List: Consumer companies are among those most associated with ESG (environmental, social and governance) practices. Natura, Unilever, O Boticario, Nestle and P&G are all featured in the Merco and Walk the Talk rankings. Environmental and diversity and inclusion themes were highlighted at the Cannes Lions Festival as guidelines for business innovation strategies, not just marketing. Examples included Adidas’ inclusive swimwear line and Nike’s support of diversity in soccer.
Sustainable Finance
Our Vision: The financial sector is working on new products, services and reports to certify its own commitment to the sustainability agenda and reinforce the message that companies with sustainable practices can benefit from recognition, reputation and better credit conditions.
Our Reading List: Bloomberg’s Gender-Equality Index 2022, which measures gender equality in companies, listed Latin America as a leader among other regions in its female leadership and gender pay scores. BNP Paribas released its portfolio’s “biodiversity footprint,” which covers their investments and respective supply chains.
Corporate Sustainability
Our Vision: Rapid e-commerce expansion and the increased volume of online shopping driven by the pandemic has challenged delivery companies to be ever more responsive while respecting the quality of life of workers and reducing the impact of packaging.
Our Reading List: Fedex is investing in fleet electrification. Besides betting on electric motorcycles, iFood is looking for biodegradable packaging options. Rappi, in partnership with Corona beer, created a seal to encourage restaurants to reduce the use of disposable packaging.
Deep Dive
Among the five insights in its latest global energy outlook report, McKinsey points to the the volatility that the energy sector faces due to geopolitical tensions. It calculates a 1.7oC increase by 2100 if all countries with net zero targets meet their commitments. Another trend report from KPMG analyzes manufacturing sector trends in relation to climate change, digitalization, and the growing demands of investors, customers, and workers.