Sustainable Development Goals – for a better world
In 2015 the world took a step towards a better future with 150 leaders from countries around the world formally adopting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The 17 goals are a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
New Zealand was one of the countries which signed up to the Goals in September 2015, agreeing to contribute to achievement of the goals through a combination of domestic action, international leadership on global policy issues, and supporting countries through the New Zealand Aid Programme.
The SDGs provide a road map to a better world for all, but without action these goals will remain just that. This shouldn’t be limited to world leaders and multinationals – every business and organisation, no matter how small, can incorporate one or more of the goals into their work.
Achieving the SDGs will require a cross-Government effort. New Zealand government agencies are reviewing the goals and their alignment with Government priorities. This analysis will inform a discussion on how New Zealand focuses its efforts.
The GPF recognises the significance of the SDGs, in particular Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. The GPF’s Product Stewardship Scheme plays a role in helping New Zealand consumers and businesses to meet this goal by improving the quality and quantity of glass bottles and jars available for recycling in New Zealand – glass recycling having a number of benefits such as reduced need for virgin material and reduced carbon emissions in production when using cullet (recycled glass) over raw materials.
The GPF’s priority on engagement with all sectors in the glass recovery cycle is in line with SDG12’s global targets and we encourage not only stakeholders, but all of New Zealand to work towards achieving these.
Want to know more about what the SDGs mean for business? Read this useful article and resource guide from the Sustainable Business Council.