Life Below Earth Booklet - Flipbook - Page 5
OUR JOURNEY TO
PROTECTING OUR
ECOSYSTEMS
The world is facing a climate and ecological emergency, with ecosystems being among the
most impacted. In response, we approach our business practices by analysing the impact
our activities will have on the wider environment, taking careful consideration for all living
organisms. The introduction of our Biodiversity Policy supports our Life below Earth initiative,
tackling the challenges posed by our changing environment, with sustainability at the heart
of our approach.
In recent years the importance of protecting our oceans (which cover 140 million square
miles, 72% of the Earth’s surface) has become more apparent with the UN Ocean Treaty
in 2023 and increased emphasis on ocean-based climate action at the annual Conference
of the Parties (COP). This agreement includes a global commitment to halt and reverse
biodiversity loss and to protect 30% of land and oceans by 2030. The historic agreement
implemented by the United Nations will cover two-thirds of the ocean, strengthening the
legal framework (Law of the sea convention) sustaining high marine biodiversity ecosystems.
The regional seas convention and action plan is the world’s only legal framework for
protecting the oceans and seas at a regional level. Oceans are an important source of food
for life, travel stream for imports and exports and while all ecosystems function as carbon
sinks, oceans are particularly vital in mitigating greenhouse gases, absorbing approximately
30% of the emissions emitted by human activities.
When ecosystems are damaged, their ability to sequester carbon is diminished, contributing
to the acceleration of climate change. Ecosystems and biodiversity have a place in policy
and business, in ways never considered in the 20th century. A central aspect of our ESG
strategy and especially our biodiversity policy is understanding and mitigating the impact
our business has on ecosystems. We are committed to taking proactive steps to reduce our
impact by enhancing sustainable practices associated across our value chain. We aim to
focus on 昀椀ve core areas: marine biodiversity, a昀昀orestation, pollutions, minimising waste and
utilising materials which have a reduced long-lasting impact on the environment.
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