Unilever launches online innovation space to promote sustainability

Unilever has announced the launch of a new online platform through which it will be able to share innovations to promote sustainability in its business operations.

The company's open innovation team has introduced a web space that will detail a number of Unilever research projects, in order to invite potential collaborators to work together with Unilever to deliver sustainable solutions.

It is the first time the multinational firm has shared its research initiatives so openly in a public forum, with projects including clean water schemes, efforts to improve packaging and technology to reduce sodium content in food.

By calling on external expertise, Unilever will be aided in its ambitious efforts to double the size of its business while reducing its environmental impact.

Roger Leech, Unilever's open innovation scouting director, said: "Smart collaboration with partners gives both parties the freedom to do business in new and invigorating ways."

Chief executive officer Paul Polman has also stated in the past that the firm is seeking to change consumer lifestyles and habits in order to aid global carbon reduction efforts.