Reckitt Benckiser highlights sustainability progress in 2012

Reckitt Benckiser has published its sustainability report for 2012, highlighting the various ways in which it was able to improve its environmental performance last year.

During the period, the firm introduced an innovative water footprint measurement approach, identifying conservation priorities in order to take account of water scarcity as well as actual water usage in different countries.

Rakesh Kapoor, chief executive officer of Reckitt Benckiser, said: "Our innovative approach to reducing our water impact demonstrates how our sustainability strategy aligns with the emphasis in our business strategy on health and hygiene and emerging markets."

The company has achieved a 25 percent total lifecycle carbon footprint reduction since 2007, while its cooperative partnership with Save the Children reached more than 350,000 people last year.

It has also worked hard to reduce workplace accident rates, minimise wastage, expand its tree planting programmes, raise public awareness of health issues and generate donations for charitable causes.

These initiatives come as part of Reckitt Benckiser's betterbusiness strategy, which aims to create more sustainable products while cutting its water and carbon footprints.