Energy Efficiency, GHG Emissions, Commercial, Solar, Sourcing Renewables  -  November 8, 2019

Estée Lauder on track to meet 2020 commitments

The Estée Lauder Companies is on track to meet their 2020 targets of net zero carbon emissions and sourcing 100% renewable energy following recent solar and wind installations and the roll out of energy management improvements across its facilities.

The cosmetics company outlined their recent projects in their 2019 Corporate Responsibility Report, including an LED overhaul completed this year at their U.K. and Ireland distribution site, which is expected to reduce emissions up to 75%. The distribution center is also now using 100% renewable energy.

“As we continue to deliver on our promise to create the world’s most beloved products and experiences, we believe that embedding citizenship and sustainability across our business reflects the value we place on long-term, sustainable growth,” Fabrizio Freda, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Estée Lauder Companies Inc, said in a statement. “This year, we took important steps to more formally integrate these longstanding principles into our strategy and across our entire business.”

The Estée Lauder Companies reduced emissions by more than 5% through a combination of renewable energy utility contracts, renewable energy certificates and on-site solar, despite an increase in absolute emissions due to increased manufacturing.

The report detailed recent projects including a1 MW on-site solar system at their plant in Petersfield, U.K. that will provide up to 14% of the site’s annual electricity requirements and a new 1.4 MW ground-mounted solar array under construction in Melville, N.Y., expected to produce more than 1,800 MWh annually from more than 3,300 panels.

In 2020, the cosmetics company plans to build a 900 kW ground-mounted solar array at their Blaine, Minn., plant, which is expected to generate more than 1,500 MWh annually and a 1 MW rooftop solar project in Galgenen, Switzerland.

Additionally, the company announced plans for a new manufacturing facility in Markham, Canada, which will feature solar panels and on-site battery storage. The facility is also undergoing LEED Certification.