Colgate-Palmolive Company sustainability score: 41/100

Colgate-Palmolive discloses full Scope 1 and 2 emissions using GHG Protocol methodology with annual third-party assurance. 2020 baseline was 458,700 tCO2e; by 2023, achieved 31.12% of 42% operational reduction target. Multi-year tracking published via CDP Climate Change and annual sustainability reports.

Colgate quantifies Scope 3 from Purchased Goods and Services (2020 baseline: 7,058,700 tCO2e; total value chain ~9.24 Mt CO2e). Engages 77% of suppliers via CDP Supply Chain Programme. However, Planet Tracker noted supply chain engagement has not produced meaningful reductions over five years.

Emissions rose in 2023 vs 2022. Only 5.48% reduction from 2020 baseline by 2023 against 90% by 2040 target. Scope 3 value chain only 8.26% achieved. Planet Tracker assessed company on +3°C pathway. Scope 1+2 declining three-year trend insufficient to offset rising value chain emissions.

By end 2022, 52% global electricity from renewables, up from 35% in 2020. 20-year VPPAs secured: Markum Solar Farm (209 MW, covers 100% US operations) and European wind (covers ~60% European operations). On-site solar at 17+ facilities. Target 100% renewable electricity by 2030.

No Deforestation policy covers palm, soy, pulp and beef since 2014; 2030 palm deforestation-free objective. Uses RSPO certification and satellite monitoring. However, Greenpeace and Rainforest Action Network documented continued sourcing from deforestation-linked producers. 2026 WBA Nature Benchmark scored 19.5/100. No TNFD disclosure found.

By December 2024, 93% packaging recyclable/reusable/compostable. Virgin plastic reduced 25% from 2019 baseline; 21% post-consumer recycled content achieved. 80% manufacturing sites TRUE zero-waste certified. However, company admits missing 2025 100% recyclable target. US and Netherlands lawsuits challenge actual toothpaste tube recyclability.

Colgate-Palmolive appears on CDP Water A-List, discloses via CDP Water Security questionnaires, targets zero freshwater withdrawals at manufacturing facilities. Participates in CDP Water Supply Chain Programme with supplier engagement in water-stressed areas. Save Water campaign estimated 155bn gallons avoided consumer use.

First multinational CPG with SBTi-validated net-zero targets (2022). Absolute targets: 42% Scope 1+2 reduction by 2030, 42% Scope 3 PG&S by 2030, 90% total by 2040, net zero by 2040, all from 2020 baseline. Does not currently use carbon credits; intends high-quality nature-based removals for residual emissions only.

Chief Sustainability Officer (Ann Tracy, 2020) reports into growth and strategy. Nominating, Governance and Corporate Responsibility Committee meets quarterly. Publishes annual Sustainability & Social Impact Reports, TCFD reports, CDP responses, Climate Transition & Net Zero Action Plan. No B Corp certification or steward-ownership. Exec compensation linkage to sustainability targets not clearly disclosed.

Dutch advertising authority (RCC) ruled March 2024 that Colgate misled on Ajax bottle recyclability; upheld on appeal. Ongoing US class action on toothpaste tube recyclability claims (proceeding). Greenpeace and Rainforest Action Network documented palm supply chain deforestation links. Ethical Consumer gave worst ratings for climate, plastic, palm oil in 2024. 2025 heavy metals lawsuit unresolved.