THE ROLE OF BUSINESS IN SHAPING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
We believe that businesses play a vital role in shaping a better world. In alignment with this belief, we joined the UN Global Compact Network in December 2023.
The UN Global Compact is the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, bringing together businesses worldwide to align their operations with universal principles on human rights, labour, environment, and anti-corruption. By joining this global movement, we have pledged to support the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact and to advance broader societal goals, particularly the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
WHY BUSINESSES MUST LEAD IN ADVANCING THE SDGs
The SDGs represent a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all by 2030. These goals are not just the responsibility of governments and NGOs; businesses have a crucial role to play. As economic engines and key influencers in society, businesses can drive sustainable development through innovation, responsible practices, and collaborative partnerships.
LUCKY IRON LIFE’S COMMITMENT TO THE SDGs
At Lucky Iron Life, our work directly contributes to six of the SDGs:
- SDG 1 (No Poverty): Lucky Iron Life supports SDG 1 by tackling extreme poverty. Iron deficiency can reduce earning potential by up to 20%, especially for women in low-income countries. Our programs improve iron intake, boosting productivity, and include financial literacy training through partnerships.
- SDG 2 (Zero Hunger): By addressing iron deficiency, the most common micronutrient deficiency, we combat hidden hunger and support SDG 2. Specifically, we aim to eradicate malnutrition and reduce anemia by 50% among women aged 15-49. Our clinical trials show positive improvements in iron status.
- SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being): Our innovations improve maternal health by reducing iron deficiency anemia, linked to 40% of maternal deaths. Supporting SDG 3, we aim to lower maternal mortality and partner with midwifery and health centers serving pregnant individuals.
- SDG 4 (Quality Education): Addressing iron deficiency boosts cognitive development and improves educational outcomes, supporting SDG 4's goal of quality early childhood development for all children
- SDG 5 (Gender Equality): We focus on ensuring women have access to the nutrients they need, recognizing the disproportionate impact of anemia on women and girls. We are committed to supporting women's full and effective participation at all levels of decision-making. Lucky Iron Life engages with partners who are actively working to address gender equality and advocate for greater involvement of women in decision-making processes regarding nutrition.
- SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production): We are committed to sustainable practices, from our supply chain to our product packaging, ensuring that our impact is positive and lasting. This includes a supplier code of conduct and the Human Rights policy we are developing.
TAKING ACTION: OUR JOURNEY WITH THE HUMAN RIGHTS ACCELERATOR
In 2023, we deepened our commitment to these principles by participating in the UN Global Compact’s Human Rights Accelerator, which has guided us as we develop a robust human rights policy. This policy will ensure that our operations respect and promote human rights, reflecting our belief that ethical practices are the foundation of long-term success.
A CALL TO ACTION FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
By aligning our business practices with the UN Global Compact and the SDGs, we are not only addressing iron deficiency but also contributing to a global movement toward a more equitable, sustainable future. Businesses have the power to lead change, and at Lucky Iron Life, we are committed to doing our part in creating a healthier, more just world for all.