3M’s 2022 Global Impact Report highlights the progress the company has made toward its goals – as well as the actions taken in 2021 to accelerate ambitions in environment, social and governance (ESG). 3M’s actions in sustainability are rooted in its purpose to “Unlock the power of people, ideas and science to reimagine what’s possible” through actions across its Sustainability Framework.  

Science for circular: This is the first year 3M is reporting progress on recent water and plastic goals and there has been positive movement. 

  • Since 2019, 3M has reduced water usage by 10.7% indexed to sales. In addition, 3M has taken steps to install state-of-the-art water quality systems at some of its largest water using locations around the world.  
  • In 2021, 3M reduced over 18 million pounds virgin-based plastic use.  
  • By the end of 2021, 45.2% of 3M sites had attained zero landfill status.

Science for climate: Climate change remains one of 3M’s greatest challenges, the company continues to focus on driving innovations to help provide climate solutions in  operations, products and communities.  

  • Since 2002, 3M has reduced the absolute carbon footprint by 75.0%. And since 2019, 3M has reduced Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 26.1%.  
  • 3M is on target to surpass its 2025 annual renewable energy goal of 50% renewable energy in operations two years ahead of schedule.  
  • As of 2021, 3M has helped customers reduce their GHGs by 100 million tons of CO2 equivalent emissions through the use of 3M products since 2015.  

Science for community: In 2021, 3M continued to take meaningful steps towards a more equitable future and unlocking the power of diversity.  

  • In 2021, 3M gave the largest amount in the company’s history – $88.5 million – in total global giving.  
  • In 2021, 3M invested $12.0 million in organizations and schools that promote STEM and skilled trades for underrepresented communities, as well as organizations that assist families and households facing unique challenges from centuries of systemic racism and inequalities that multiply generationally.
  • 3M has achieved 100% gender pay equity in its global regions.  

Throughout the rest of 2022, 3M will continue to bring its Purpose and Promise to life through the actions and progress on its goals. 

Source: 3M