Sustainable Development Goals

A business perspective
Sustainable Development Goals | Foreword

Foreword

Putting the SDGs in business perspective. That’s what we want to achieve with this blog series.
When the SDGs were frst introduced I was very pleased but, quite honestly, did not immediately
relate it to my corporate clients. I thought it would be mainly for governments to achieve these goals.
Diving deeper into it, the relevance and dependency on business became apparent. Then the question became: How? This
became the leading question for our blog-series. With people from diferent disciplines, the process of discussing and
writing began. I can tell you, it wasn’t easy. Because we balanced between idealism (which contributes greatly to
creativity) and realism (which our clients
may also expect from us). I think we found a good balance between these two. The commitment and
hard work of all team members was crucial for achieving the series and this book. Therefore I want to thank Erica,
Helen, Jacqueline, Jasmijn, Jennifer, Linda, Michiel and Robbin-Jan for their fantastic
writing, reviewing and support. I respect them for their absolute devotion to create this, next to their
demanding jobs.

We hope to inspire you with this series to see the SDGs as something you can integrate in your daily
work. By showing inspiring examples and creating practical applications for everyone within reach.

Anne Huibrechtse – Truijens

Deloitte Netherlands Sustainability Lead

02
 Sustainable Development Goals | Content

Content
Introduction 04
SDG 01: No Poverty 06
SDG 02: Zero Hunger 08
SDG 03: Good Health and Well-Being 10
SDG 04: Quality Education 12
SDG 05: Gender Equality 14
SDG 06: Clean Water and Sanitation 16
SDG 07: Afordable and Clean Energy 18
SDG 08: Decent Work and Economic Growth 20
SDG 09: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure 22
SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities 24
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities 26
SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production 28
SDG 13: Climate Action 30
SDG 14: Life below Water 32
SDG 15: Life on Land 34
SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions 36
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals 38
End notes 40
Contact 46

03
Sustainable Development Goals | Introduction

Introduction
I have been working in sustainability for over 15 years now, and what I like most
is that no matter how big or small it is what I do, dedicating time and passion
towards creating a better world gives energy. It makes sense to focus on long-term
proftability, as this is the only way business can continuously contribute to a better
world. And all steps towards a better world count, no matter how big or small they
are. And not just that: it makes good business sense. Not only from a direct fnancial
perspective, but also from a risk mitigation and strategic perspective. Sustainability
is far beyond the point of being merely an attribute that companies use to build
their image or infuence public opinion; it is a non-optional choice for companies
to become sustainable themselves. In fact, it is this conviction that brought me to
Deloitte. Helping clients, connecting people, bringing in new perspectives to existing
problems and through that making an impact on society.
And I am not alone in this at Deloitte. Some two KPIs into KPIs people can connect with and relate Sustainability is not a solo journey. In fact it is about
years ago I had a conversation with some very to as people get motivated by the bigger picture. working together within the company, between
enthusiastic colleagues from Consulting. Young And within a very short time we went from a suppliers and clients and sharing knowledge and
millennials looking for a way to satisfy their general idea to a plan of action. With a small expectations. And after adding even more new
‘sustainability appetite’ who shared the same multidisciplinary team, we embarked on our SDG members to our SDG writing team we divided the
pragmatic view on sustainability and had the same journey. SDGs between us. The individual blogs might have
business sense. In exploring possible directions, the a diferent style and diferent perspective—and that is
recent publication of the SDGs caught our eye at During our meetings and conversations we had with ok. Creating them was not always an easy task and
that time. Especially as some of our clients had internal and external stakeholders it became clear some were more challenging to write then others.
already shown interest in the topic but had no idea that not everybody’s notion and approach to And that is all ok too. We wanted to create
how to actually realise it. That is evident from the sustainability, nor the SDGs, was the same. Not awareness, inspire and show that sustainability is
reports we scanned as well: some companies adopt even within the team we had formed. That about seeing opportunities, innovation,
almost all SDGs, others choose a handful. There is preconceived ideas existed about the ‘proftability’ collaboration, technology and looking beyond your
not always a clear rationale and ‘usefulness’ of tools and concepts like the own knowledge and perceptions. Above all we
for their choice, nor does the company oversee their SDGs. Mainly we noticed that many had the idea wanted to show that the impact of SDGs are not
potential impact in the supply chain, set goals and that SDGs like SDG 1 or SDG 2 were not relevant limited to a sustainability aspect of a company, they
disclose progress. for Western companies as ‘these are more typical provide a company a framework to become a
3rd world problems’. To us it became clear that we sustainable business in itself.
In my perception, the SDGs form a very powerful had to broaden the horizon, not just of our own
tool as they allow and stimulate both governments knowledge but that of our colleagues, friend and
and companies to take action right now for a more clients. The idea of a blog series was born.
Erica Kostense-Smit
sustainable future. And not just that, to
Deloitte Netherlands Manager
communicate, measure and report their progress in
Sustainability
the meantime. When discussing the SDGs with my
colleagues, it quickly became clear how powerful
and motivating the SDGs can be: as they have the
ability to transform regular

04
 Sustainable Development Goals | Introduction

About the SDGs

What?
Launched by the UN in 2015, the Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 global goals
aimed at transforming our world by 2030.
Through goals such as eradicating poverty,
reduced inequality, and responsible consumption
and production, the SDGs make the route to a
better world more tangible and actionable. The
SDGs demonstrate a unique opportunity for
business to accelerate social impact and make
a lasting impact on our world, with the ability to
start today.

Why?
We have a beautiful planet, shaped with cities, forests and
rivers and inhabited by almost 7.5
billion unique personalities. The place we so thankfully
can call our home. Yet our world is
getting increasingly complex and is challenged by political
and economic instability, the rapidly
growing needs of the middle class, rising
inequality, evolving consumer preferences and changing
investor perspectives. These are daily issues that afect
businesses, politics, and every
one of us. The breadth of the SDGs aims to
provide sustainable development for all, through
us all. That means that to achieve the 17 global
goals, we, through business, politics and personal
endeavours, should all contribute to sustainably developing
our planet. For ourselves, for others,
and for all generations to come.

How?
Although the big initiatives are often the ones that have
the largest impact, we should never
forget that making an impact on this world is not achieved
merely by the big eforts of the few, but rather by the sum of
all the endeavours of many. Having the obligation of a better
world together,
with the urgency of today, means that defning your scope is
critical for success. So picking just one or two SDGs and
committing to them would be the ideal starting point
towards a sustainable
world by 2030. SDGs are a means to that end, and
not an end in itself. So read about your favourite SDGs, get
inspired, get creative, and see how you or your company can
contribute to a better world
in 2030. And reading this publication might just
be the right starting point for that today.

05
 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 1 : No Poverty

SDG 1: No Poverty
By Jennifer Muller

With more than 800 million people still living on less than $1.25 a day, poverty remains
one of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Poverty has many consequences; no access to
adequate food, clean drinking water and sanitation are only a couple of them.
What? Create business and markets It also contributes to fghting poverty since
SDG 1 is a commitment to end all forms of A business case can be found in many of the actions smallholder’s households see agriculture as the best
poverty by 2030. This is not only related required to reach an SDG. These business cases can opportunity to get out of poverty. This statement is
to income and wage, but also related to social be based, among others, on market demand (with valid as agriculture is
protection, equal rights to resources, ownership, products and services for poorer people), cost up to 4 times more efective in reducing poverty
basic rights and property, and resilience of the savings (having solid health and safety policies so than other sectors, according to WDR (2008)3.
vulnerable to climate, social and economic shocks. that health costs decrease) and increased Businesses in many sectors use agriculture in their
The 6 sub- goals1 that are set for this target relate to productivity (such as ofering employees stability via supply chain, which means much beneft can be
those subjects. fnancial support). As can be seen in the examples, gained.
the business model could directly and indirectly
Why? contribute to societal development. Use the process of product
Attract talent and create internal
development
support How? Companies with a strong focus on product
Working with SDG 1 makes fghting poverty a Use your business model
development could contribute to SDG 1 by
tangible topic because of the specifc goals and sub- In order to get engaged with SDG 1, one of the
developing specifc products for the lower- income
goals of the SDG. Subjects related to poverty, like actions that can be taken is to evaluate and—if
part of society. For a company
hunger and income inequality, are seen as important necessary—adapt your business model. For
in the chemicals or food sector, one could think of
by many employees of the newer generation. example, to make products more afordable in
developing products with extra nutrition for a
According to Deloitte’s Millennial Survey lower-income parts of the country, partnerships
lower price, so it can contribute to fghting hunger.
20172. 43% of the millennials is concerned could be established with local organisations
This can be developed for a specifc market on top
about hunger, health care and income inequality whereby lower prices could be ofered to specifc
of the usual product line, and with that it can also
worldwide. In addition, 56% is concerned about groups. Instead of competing with local
create a new business model for the company with
political tension and war, making those topics the organisations when it comes to targeting lower
a new business case.
highest scoring ones on the list. All those topics are income groups (such as via patents), cooperation
More examples can be found in a diverse range of
related to poverty or its consequences. For can be valuable for both parties. As a specifc sector
sectors, such as ofering micro- insurance products
businesses that operate in developed countries, example, businesses using agriculture in their
to lower-income groups. Also packaging can be
engaging with these topics supply chain could start to incorporate
taken into account, for example by selling quality
can create enthusiasm, leverage and internal smallholders in their supply chain (such as via
products in small unit packages for low- income
support from its employees. On the other hand, using local sourced fber). This can create
countries. This makes products more afordable and
for businesses located in developing countries, it reputational benefts and loyalty from (potential)
can mean new market opportunities for businesses.
can improve the living conditions of its customers.
employees. This in turn can lead to increased
employee productivity.

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 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 1 : No Poverty

“Instead of competing with local

organisations when it comes to targeting lower
income groups, cooperation can be valuable
for both parties.”

07
Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 2 : No Hunger

SDG 2: Zero Hunger

By Linda van den Breul

Extreme hunger and malnutrition are still a huge barrier

to development in many countries. About 795 million
people are estimated to be chronically undernourished as
of 2014. This is mostly caused
by environmental degradation, drought and loss
of biodiversity.
08
 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 2 : No Hunger

What? When faced with the diferent SDGs, we see that Understanding your value chain
SDG 2 is a commitment to end hunger and all forms companies tend to focus on SDGs they have the For other companies it could be useful to focus on
of malnutrition by 2030. This is not only related to most direct impact on, for example energy their value chain, and primarily on proper sourcing.
achieving food security and improved nutrition, but efciency. These priorities may be in contrast to Understanding your value chain could shed light on
also related to sustainable and productive what consumers see as the most important global the impact your company has, also if you do not
agriculture. The second SDG interconnects with challenges, where hunger is a top-5 priority. have local presence. For example, emphasis on
many other SDGs. For example, ending hunger also Although the problems around hunger and basics, such as respecting local land rights, could
leads to ending poverty (SDG 1). Research shows malnutrition seem local and far away, we can all have a large positive impact on local farming and
that countries may lose 2-3% of their gross contribute, also if your business is not active in local food sustainability and security, but a minor
domestic product (GDP) as a result of iron, iodine, developing markets. impact on your own business. Partnering with local
and zinc defciencies. Therefore investments in farmers and others throughout the value chain
malnutrition could yield enormous benefts in How? improves the productivity, sustainability and
improved earnings and healthcare spending. In Examples of sources of hunger are food price viability of local farmers and communities. This
addition, there is also a strong connection between infation, land rights and ownership, increasing subsequently contributes to achieving SDG 2.
ensuring availability and sustainable management of emphasis on export-oriented agriculture, drought, Although supply chains might be large and opaque,
water (SDG 6), taking action to combat climate war, over-fshing and low crop yields. Companies this should not discourage companies from
change (SDG 13) and zero hunger (SDG 2). from various sectors have an impact on these upholding the highest standards of sustainability in
Solutions for these problems, such as sustainable sources and can therefore improve the situation. sourcing practices, enhancing traceability of input
farming and increasing use of agrotechnology could Below are specifc examples of actions that materials and demonstrating transparency in the
solve multiple problems at once. This blog will businesses can take in order to contribute to the supply chain, since its global impact is of high
show that many companies, also with no direct realisation of SDG 2. importance.
business in the countries afected most by hunger,
can contribute to achieving the goal of ending Prevent food price infation and support Other examples
hunger. micro-fnance There are also many other examples of companies
Food price infation makes nutrition unavailable for that focus on alternative areas to eradicate hunger.
Why? large parts of the world. It therefore makes sense Reducing food wastage is a major topic for food
Eradicating hunger and malnutrition in the world for fnancial and trading companies to look at their retailers. Walmart is now selling ‘ugly’ food and is
could be directly benefcial to your company. In impact on food price infation. Being aware of your working to obtain 100% of the suppliers’ harvest,
addition, your company could have a bigger impact impact on food price infation, for example through which increases competition across the industry by
on the problem than you might initially expect. soft commodity trading or other investing activities, doing so. Companies that are completely unrelated
could be a good frst step. One step further, we see to the
In SDG 1 we discussed the direct benefts for many (investment) banks and pension funds refrain food industry are contributing as well. For example,
companies when adhering to the SDGs: it can from these kinds of investment. Another more US game developer Zynga contributes by giving
attract talent and create internal support, and positive approach for the fnancial industry is gamers the possibility to buy in-game gadgets that
business and future markets can be created. In supporting micro- fnance initiatives. These micro- support the United Nations’ World Food Program4.
addition, we already see direct benefts for Western fnance initiatives can fund farmers to be self-
companies committed to eradicating hunger and sustainable and improve agricultural productivity
malnutrition. Consumers today are more prepared and sustainability, thereby increasing food security
to pay for products that are committed (directly or for the local community.
indirectly) to one or several of the SDGs.

09
Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 3 : Health and Well-Being

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being

By Jacqueline Olivier

At this moment in time, more than 6 million children die before

their ffth birthday every year, hundreds of women die during
pregnancy or from child-birth related complications, only 56% of
births are attended by skilled professionals, and AIDS is now the leading
cause of death among teenagers in sub-Saharan Africa.

What? possibilities. Innovation can open up markets, lead How? Food

Ensuring healthy lives and safety and promoting the to a new set of customers, and can also expand the technology
well-being for all, is essential to sustainable product assortment. But most of all: it can give an One way to use innovation in creating healthier
development. Major progress has been made over organisation a competitive advantage over its lives is to develop or invest in food technology.
the past years in reducing child and maternal competitors. Initiating an innovation that relates to For example, micronutrient innovation.
mortality, increasing access to clean water and healthy lives and well-being can therefore not only Micronutrients are essential building blocks that
sanitation, and treating life-threatening diseases. help organisations, but also people living under have
However, there is still a lot of work to do. This is unsafe and unhealthy conditions. a profound impact on health. While they are only
why SDG 3 focuses on ensuring healthy lives and required in tiny quantities, micronutrients are the
promoting well- being for all. Increased productivity & employee essential building blocks of healthy bones, brains
satisfaction and bodies. There are some companies that have
SDG 3 is also linked to various other SDGs. For Safety is a fundamental human right throughout an developed efective micronutrient delivery systems
example, SDG 2 and SDG 6 since hunger, infected individual’s daily life, as can be seen in Maslow’s that are culturally appropriate and cost-efective,
water and unhygienic living conditions can lead to Hierarchy of Needs Pyramid6. This means that a such as fortifed rice kernels with encapsulated
infectious diseases and could afect the health of safe working environment is essential as it micronutrients7. It is especially attractive to
people. Another link exists with SDG 8 since positively contributes to the health of an developing countries as it is a relatively cheap food
unemployed individuals tend to be in worse organisation’s employees. Besides, it is also product that can be locally sourced by smallholder
physical and mental condition. benefcial for the organisation itself since a safe farmers. This example of food technology could
working environment increases productivity, signifcantly increase health in developing countries,
Why? employee retention rates, employee satisfaction and which subsequently will lead to a prolonged
Competitive advantage
a positive brand image. The latter is based on the lifespan.
At Deloitte, we believe that innovation is necessary
fact that Health & Safety is increasingly integrated
to survive5. This applies to all facets of an
in sustainability reporting practices, which creates
organisation—and sustainability practices are one
transparency and builds trust with various
of them. But thinking that sustainable innovation is
stakeholders. All of the previously mentioned
important is one thing; freeing up money and
factors are subsequently refected in an
resources for innovation goes a step further. The art
organisation’s overall performance. The higher the
is to develop new products and services that meet
productivity and employee satisfaction is, the more
customer needs—healthy and safe lives in the case
likely it is that an organisation will fourish in the
of SDG 3. Innovating to ensure healthy lives can
market.
provide organisations with many

10
 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 3 : Health and Well-Being

“The art is to
8
0

develop new
S
a

products and
services that meet
customer needs—
healthy and safe
T
h

lives in the case of

p
h

SDG 3.”
i
d
investigations and safety analytics such as
predictive modelling. Once the hazards
have been determined, a plan should be
established to decrease their potential
threat. An organisation can increase safety
by, for example, replacing equipment,
developing Standard Operating Procedures
(SOPs), and by providing work procedure,
skills and on-the-job training. However,
it is essential to have management
commitment and a skilled support-
management team that implements the safety
plan. This way it is more likely that
safety plans are successful, and that health and
well-being are ensured for employees
in both developed and developing
countries.

The previously mentioned examples are just two

ways of how organisations can contribute to
achieving SDG 3. It is up to organisations
themselves to explore the
wide array of possibilities, and to determine
which actions ft their organisation’s
business model best. Have you already
started exploring?

11
Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 4 : Quality Education

SDG 4: Quality Education

By Jasmijn Korver

Ongoing armed confict has caused an increase in the number

of children out of school. Also, children from the poorest
households are up to 4 times more likely to be out of school
than children from the richest households. Disparities between rural
and urban areas also remain high.
What? Skilled workforce and increased wages schools and investors in this industry. The education
In recent years, major progress has been made Providing education for employees will develop market is constantly growing and it is forecasted that
towards increasing access to education at all levels human capital that is required to create a skilled education technology investment alone will reach
and increasing enrolment rates in schools, workforce. A higher educated workforce will lead $252 billion by the year of 2020. Some examples of
particularly for women and girls. Not surprisingly, to higher wages and thereby more disposable current top edtech companies are Duolingo9,
inclusive, equitable and quality education is a key income for consumer spending. For example, one Noodle10 and Knewton11.
enabler of sustainable development. However, additional school year can increase a woman’s
children, youth and adults are still being confronted earnings by 10 to 20%. This will lead to societies Engage in partnerships
with discrimination when it comes to access to with more disposable income for goods and In addition to making individual contributions, it is
quality learning opportunities, despite international services, while at the same time strengthening also efective to engage in partnerships to support
afrmation of the right to education. SDG 4 strives to women’s empowerment in families and collective action. Businesses have the opportunity to
combat this inequality and promotes learning for all. communities. engage in global education initiatives, ofering a
Moreover, this goal holds the ingredients to fuel diverse variety of partnerships with governments
sustainable growth by building social cohesion and Brand leadership and corporate and education organisations across the globe. Some
stability, and supporting human rights and equality. reputation examples of educational partnerships that you could
According to the United Nations, SDG 4 could be By investing in education, several opportunities for engage in are among others, One Eleuthera12
seen as the golden thread that runs through all 17 businesses can arise. For instance, it can result in (center for Training and Innovation) and the ILead
SDGs. new markets and customer bases. Looking from a Program13 (center to promote a reading culture
brand perspective, consumers show willingness to among children living in rural areas).
There is a tremendous potential for the private buy socially conscious brands. In addition,
sector to contribute to SDG 4, and we hope this shareholders of large companies have expectations Develop capacity of the future
blog will inspire you and provide you with new that these companies manage their social impact. workforce
thoughts on this topic. Businesses should identify current and future
How? competencies needed for the labor market, and
Why? Edtech make sure to design and implement appropriate
Investing in education is essential to develop a Digital connectivity plays a critical role in training programs for their workforce. Also,
skilled workforce for the future, increase bettering lives and it provides access to businesses can invest in (basic) education in
productivity and to improve economic growth. unprecedented knowledge for billions of people developing markets in order to improve the future
When it comes to education, businesses have the worldwide. As a result, more and more people talent pool. In addition, businesses should also
potential to make an impact in the education sphere have access to (free) education online. Tech keep in mind that ageing population provides
by being an efective partner in improving education companies from Silicon Valley and other regions signifcant opportunities for sustainable
systems and learning around the globe. For have begun providing solutions to problems development through the active participation of
businesses, several incentives can be recognised to ranging from adaptive learning to global access of older generations in the economy, labor market
get engaged with SDG 4. Please fnd a selection of high quality education. This type of education and society at large (e.g. by unpaid care work,
these incentives below: technology, also known as edtech, is getting more political participation and by working beyond
and more important with regard to learning across retirement age).
the globe and in the last few years there has been
a surge in investment from
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 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 4 : Quality
Education
13
Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 5 : Gender Equality

SDG 5: Gender Equality

By Linda van den Breul

Gender inequality still occurs everywhere in the world. This can range from
huge inequalities in the labour market in some regions, to sexual violence and
exploitation, the unequal division of unpaid care and domestic work, and
discrimination in public ofce.

What? Impact on businesses Also equal pay can contribute; this is what Jean-
The ffth SDG is about eliminating all forms of Gender equality could also enhance business Pascal Tricoire, CEO of the French corporate
discrimination, violence and harmful practices performance. There are several studies16 that fnd Schneider Electric, wants to do and he announced to
against women and girls. In addition, it is about a positive relationship between company eliminate the gender pay gap for all its 150,000
recognising and valuing unpaid care and domestic performance and employees by 201719. A good starting point is
work, ensuring women’s participation and equal a more diverse board, for example on returns, creating awareness of gender equality and
opportunities and ensuring universal access to margins and stock market performances. One of the investigating your own HR data and existing
sexual and reproductive rights. Promoting gender reasons is that diversity of thinking and opinions is policies.
equality and empowering women is a stand-alone essential for the success of a business. Also an
goal and it is also part of many other SDGs, where improved reputation is a frequently heard argument Empowering women in the value chain
it can be both an objective and a part of the for companies to support more gender equality and Also at multinationals we see that improving gender
solution for these SDGs. women empowerment. equality goes hand in hand with tackling business
challenges. An example where a global leader
Why? Attract and retain talent tackles supply chain problems by empowering
Positive impact on the economy Promoting gender equality is also key to attract and women comes from Unilever. Hindustan Unilever,
Besides that gender equality is a fundamental retain talent, which can improve productivity. Today the Indian subsidiary of the global consumer goods
human right, empowering women and girls is more women than giant, had trouble accessing the small villages
essential for economic growth. We are already men are enrolling in Western universities, making outside its distribution network in India. Their
improving, as research groups estimate that the US women a vital talent pool. Research also shows that solution was project Shakti20, an initiative to create
economy would be 11% smaller today if women’s employees, both men a female entrepreneurial network. Unilever provides
employment patterns would not have changed in and women, are less willing to switch jobs if they training in entrepreneurial
the past 30 years14. But there is still a long way to have a positive perceptions of an organisation’s skills and teaches the women about the company’s
go. Goldman Sachs, an investment bank, calculated ‘diversity climate’17,18. products. Since women are often the primary
that eliminating the employment gap between man purchaser and consumer of Unilever’s products this
and women would add 9% to the US GDP and How? made a lot of sense. Currently this network consists
13% to that of the Eurozone15. Solutions to keep diversity in the of 72,000 micro-entrepreneurs making an income by
workforce actively promoting and distributing Unilever
Many companies are confronted with reduced products. Other ways to empower women could be
productivity as a result of losing talented female to support the development of marketable skills,
staf. This problem worsens when losing women in assisting women in fnding and retaining jobs and
the ranks leading to executive leadership positions. supporting equal social and economic rights.
Solutions to this problem in practice include more
fexible work policies, mentoring and more gender
engagement.

14
 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 5 : Gender
Equality

“Besides that gender equality is a fundamental

human right, empowering women and girls is
essential for economic growth.”

15
Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 6 : Clean Water and Sanitation

SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

By Jennifer Muller and Erica Kostense-Smit

Water scarcity afects more than 40% of people around the world. This is
estimated to increase signifcantly due to global warming, increasing drought and
desertifcation. It is only a matter of time before at least 1 in
4 people will be afected by water shortages.
What? Inequality How? Know and use your supply chain
SDG 6 stands for access to safe water sanitation and In many countries, especially women pay a high Water is a source that most companies can directly
sound management of freshwater ecosystems, as price for the water shortage and lack of sanitation: infuence because of the important role in the value
they are essential to human health and to either through time- consuming water collection (in chain. If businesses
environmental sustainability and economic sub-Saharan Africa women spend 40 billion hours a want to infuence water usage and water supply, they
prosperity, according to the UN21. Over 2 billion year collecting water, which is the equivalent need to do two things. Firstly, they need to identify
people currently live in areas defned as having of the French workforce for one year) or not water usage within their own business for both
excess water stress and it is expected that in some having access to proper sanitation at schools. primary and supporting processes (such as toilets
areas this water stress will increase and eventually Women therefore tend to run a risk of missing out and catering). Secondly, it is important to clearly
escalate to water scarcity22. on proper education, which could make up to half map the water usage and access to clean sanitation
the workforce not as skilled or available as it could for employees within the supply chain as well as to
We’ve identifed a tremendous potential for the have been. identify the span of control in that supply chain.
private sector to contribute to SDG This can contribute to the determination of where
6. How? Hopefully we can inspire you Business sense and how the most impact can be made. Actions can
with this blog. Many businesses depend on water. They either need vary from partnering with local suppliers to
it for their primary processes (like beverage changing the sourcing strategy, design of (primary)
Why? companies, farmers or textile companies), sourcing production processes to even changing business
The benefts of clean water and sanitation may sound of products that depend highly on water for models (for example, transition from less
obvious but go deeper than just aiding basic human production (like fashion or apparel industry), or their ‘disposable’ fashionable clothing collections to
hygiene and health. consumers need water to use their products properly more timeless designs) in such a way that water
If we continue like we are doing now, the (think shower products, food and beverages). These usage or water pollution is drastically reduced.
predictions are that 1 in 4 people will be afected by companies do not wish to cease production due to
recurring water shortages, and according to the local water shortages nor do they want their client to
UNDP (United Nation development program)23, use their products less often as a result.
this also leads to food and energy insecurity as well
as worse environmental health. These aspects all
have economic consequences.

16
 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

It is important to be aware of the broad span of Sharing knowledge can also be achieved by A clear example of a commercial solution is the
control that companies can have on water demand training and educating employees. Businesses designed chemical home toilets, an alternative to
and supply and access to clean sanitation for could train their employees, for example, on water paid-for public toilets designed by Unilever, used
employees and their families. For instance, usage at home and at work. Water usage at home is in Ghana as part of the Clean Team project.
companies in the construction industry can especially important in developing countries, Almost 8,000 people are already using the toilets.
contribute largely in terms of preventing water where knowledge of proper water usage in The project has also created employment for
pollution, since this industry is responsible for household situations is often insufcient. almost 40 people, stimulating the local economy.
around 4% of the particulate emissions with more Projects and research focusing on the circular
water pollutions incidents than any other Commercial opportunities: ofering clean economy and water management/sanitation are
industry24. water and sanitation also conducted. An example of this is Veolia using
Water scarcity solutions are eminently the type of recycled wastewater from the Gramman reservoir
Share your knowledge solutions that allow businesses to get to the to produce potable water for the city of Windhoek
On topics like water, which are quite complex forefront and to create change on a larger sale via in Namibia.
because of the interdependence with other topics market-driven solutions. One example is the Toilet
(e.g. inequality and climate change), it is key to Board Coalition (TBC), a global business-led
share and enhance knowledge. coalition of companies, governments, experts and
NGOs working together on developing
Businesses can play an important role in this. commercially sustainable and scalable solutions to
Reporting on their own performance is a good start; the lack of sanitation25.
reporting on performances in the supply chain the
ultimate goal. Reporting guidelines like the General
Reporting Initiative (GRI) could support
organisations in disclosing data with specifc
indicators defned for the topic of water. Sharing
performance could act as an incentive for
organisations to set targets and actively manage
progress. Companies that are already reporting on
their water performance are among others Nestlé
and Heineken.

17
 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 7 : Renewable Energy

SDG 7: Afordable and Clean Energy

By Jennifer Muller and Erica Kostense-Smit

As the global population continues to grow, so will the demand for cheap energy—and
cheap energy relies on fossil fuels. This increases the greenhouse gas emissions signifcantly,
unless we start investing in renewable energies.
What? Long term value and cost reduction Nevertheless, we know that:
SDG 7 focuses on energy accessibility. Right now, The list of societal benefts of access to clean • The transition is eminent and will pose new
one in fve people worldwide do not have access to energy is endless, and numerous other examples challenges for businesses.
electricity. The problem is concentrated in Africa can be provided. In fact, many publications about • Fossil fuels will become scarcer and/or expensive
and Asia. the energy transition will confrm this29. but it will probably take some time before society
However, the question that many organisations can function without fossil fuels.
Having an SDG about energy accessibility might ask is: Why should I make this my problem? Our • The most sustainable energy is energy which is
seem odd at frst sight. A paradox even, since answer is simple: Because it makes good business not used.
energy usage accounts for approximately 60% of sense to do so. • There is still a huge potential for energy
global greenhouse gas emissions26. However, reduction that still needs to be explored.
energy accessibility is often a prerequisite in First of all, we know that an energy transition is
achieving many other SDGs—it therefore makes eminent. Although this is great news for SDG 7, this It is therefore essential that organisations take
sense to have an SDG dedicated to this topic. On also goes hand in hand with new challenges for energy efciency seriously. As it
top of that, SDG 7 is not only about energy society and companies. For example, transitions can help them to become less vulnerable, and to
accessibility. It is also about the energy transition from central to more local production and more of preserve fossil fuels for those who cannot aford to
where traditional fossil fuels will gradually be the grid solutions will result in a less controllable invest in alternatives. In fact, the business case
replaced by more sustainable, renewable energy environment. This can impact businesses to great for energy efcient products is acknowledged by
sources. extent. In addition, energy prices are not high many investors and businesses, which show that
enough to stimulate organisations to invest in both value creation and cost reduction can be
Why? renewables, and prices for CO achieved. This has led to more investments being
2 are not
Impact on societal health made in the feld of energy, as discussed in
nearly in the range that they should be to
As previously mentioned, accessibility to Deloitte’s 2017 Renewable Energy Outlook30.
incorporate all real societal costs.
sustainable energy contributes to the realisation of To illustrate this: it is argued that for each dollar
many other SDGs, such as SDG 3. That SDG invested in energy-efciency measures, around
Secondly, we do not know exactly how the energy
focuses on ensuring healthy lives, which can be $2 can be saved in investments in electricity
transition will infuence companies since this relies
closely linked to sustainable energy. For example, supply, and up to $4 in electricity costs of the
on many factors. Examples are global energy
access to energy can have a direct efect on societal life-cycle of a product. Demand for energy-
demand, local taxes, stakeholders and innovations.
health, since many essential facilities like hospitals efcient products could grow 7-8% on an
cannot operate without energy27. Furthermore, the annual basis, reaching the value of $530
need for clean energy regarding societal health can billion in 20 years31.
be illustrated by the striking example that currently This shows that investing in energy efciency
2.8 billion people rely on wood and coal for can actually create fnancial gains in addition
cooking and heating. This results in severe indoor to societal gains for businesses and
air pollution, estimated to cause over 4 million organisations.
premature deaths per year28.

18
 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 7 : Renewable
Energy

How? The two previously mentioned measures require Another example is, again, one from the
Many might think enough has been said and done investments in technology, and companies usually hospitality sector. An upcoming trend
about energy reduction. However, we see that there is deploy a payback period on investments of 3-10 years. in this sector is the substitution of meat for
still a huge potential out there that is not utilised. We Combined with this are the intangible benefts often vegetables in meals. This substitution will reduce
would like to illustrate this with two examples. forgotten in the business case. For example, research has environmental impact, which consists for a large part
shown that the majority of the customers is more out of CO
2
Primary processes attracted to eco-friendly hotels. Especially measures in
The frst step organisations usually take is looking at emissions. In total, the environmental impact of a
the feld of energy are valued by hotel guests33.
meal when substituting meat for vegetables reduces by
their primary processes. We see that, especially in
25%35. This example also shows that multiple
production environments, organisations are very familiar Supply chain responsibility
environmental goals can be achieved: serving more
with measuring and controlling energy consumption. In addition to looking at the primary processes,
vegetables compared to meat also led to less food waste. In
However, in less technical environments, this is still organisations are increasingly looking at their entire
addition, if all hotels in the Netherlands would substitute
uncommon. Reasons for this could be that it is not clear supply chain.
more vegetables for meat, it could create a procurement
who is responsible for energy This is in line with the trend regarding transparency
reduction (governance issues), or that the advantage of up to 7 million Euros36.
on organisational impact34, whereby actual responsibility
changes made have only been incremental.
is being taken for the acts and activities of suppliers.
The previously mentioned examples in diferent areas
When looking at the supply chain, organisations often
An example of a sector that has recently been taking (technology, data analyses, food) demonstrate the diversity
seek for energy efciency methods that decrease CO
serious steps towards energy efciency is the hospitality 2 of possibilities there are to contribute to SDG 7. What they
industry. Research has shown that electricity is more than emissions. all have in common is that they contribute to society at
half of the environmental impact caused by hotel chains32. large, but are also of beneft to the (fnancial) position of
Measures that are being taken are:
For instance, one of our clients was able to reduce organisations.
the CO
• Contributing via construction: energy can already 2 footprint of a major product
be saved by simple processes like creating larger windows they have with as much as 30%. This by simply
with more introducing a method to require suppliers to report
natural light. This means that less electricity is their CO
2 footprint,
needed to illuminate rooms.
have them make plans about improving energy
• Contributing via technology: by using more
efciency, and using this data when selecting suppliers. By
smart sensors, further reduction of energy can be
comparing suppliers to peers one can identify possible
achieved while enhancing user experience.
‘weak suppliers’ and ‘strong suppliers’, and subsequently
help them to improve their footprint.

19
 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 8 : Good Jobs and Economic Growth

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

By Michiel van der Valk and Erica Kostense-Smit

Although the global economy continues to recover and the number of workers living
in extreme poverty has declined, there are still widening inequalities, and not enough jobs to
keep up with a growing labour force.
What? Why? However, there is still a misconception that
Inclusive and sustainable economic growth, The growing world population and the increasing this only occurs in the developing world, or
employment and decent work for everyone forms level of globalisation lead to more responsibilities only in certain industries. For example in
one of the cornerstones of sustainable development. and opportunities. Many of these opportunities can Europe, forced labour remains the most
However, for many vulnerable groups like migrant be found with the vulnerable groups mentioned commonly reported form of modern
workers, lower educated people, and people with above, as there is still much room for sustainable slavery41.
disabilities, access to work under the right economic growth. It is therefore highly encouraged • Digitalisation is going fast, and greatly afects
conditions is still far from a given37. Despite the to enable and involve developing countries in order the job market and
positive global developments that have occurred, to achieve sustained growth. However, there are the way people work. The way people
such as the reduction of child labor, this problem is some risks in the quest towards a more sustainable communicate changes as companies are
still signifcant. In fact, it is estimated that in 2012, economic growth: becoming more like interconnected networks.
168 million children were involved in child labor of • The employment market changes rapidly. A recent The 2017 Deloitte global human capital report42
which a substantial group worked under dangerous study from Deloitte shows that robotisation can has an interesting section on diversity and
conditions. The uproar of migrant workers working create new jobs on the one hand, but on the other inclusivity, providing insights in the global
in the Qatar 2020 World Cup stadium is just one hand it replaces repetitive and often lower paid developments from an HR perspective.
example of both the scale and the public relevance jobs39. This poses the risk of unemployment, Examples mentioned to support sustainable
of this problem38. especially for vulnerable employee groups. economic growth are to use technology and data
According to the ILO, over 60% of all workers lack to identify problems and measure the efect of
Containing both 2020 and 2030 targets, SDG 8 any kind of employment contract. Expected is that projects, and to make sure that the entire
sets the foundation for quality jobs that stimulate by 2019, more than 212 million people will be out organisation commits to this goal—hence moving
the economy whilst not harming the environment. of work, up from the current 201 million40. beyond HR.
With a focus on education (SDG 4), equality (SDG • Beyond the risk of unemployment lies the issue
5), and access to fnance, SDG 8 interacts with of forced labour. In 2016, over 40 million people
many of the other SDGs. Facilitating work under were, in what they call, ‘Modern Slavery’. This
the right working conditions could, for example, mostly occurs in industries like domestic work,
help alleviate poverty (SDG 1), increase overall agriculture, mining, building industry and
well-being (SDG 3), and create opportunities for a manufacturing.
better future.

20
 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 8 : Good Jobs and Economic Growth

How? Sourcing across borders A fexible workforce

The frst example concerns a company that sourced its products mostly outside of Another example would be to create a workforce that is able to adapt to changing
Europe. The intention of this company was to become a more responsible partner in its environments. This can be achieved by focusing on programs that stimulate permanent
supply chain, which means that it aimed to reduce its environmental and societal impact. learning, in which gamifcation can play an important role. One of the efects of gamifcation
The specifc points of attention were already known by the company, though they required is that it can create alignment between diferent departments in a company. To illustrate this:
help from Deloitte in developing actions that would reduce their impact. a game that focuses on creating shared goals helps increase interaction between employees.
Employees get a better understanding
Together with this company, Deloitte translated the points of attention into of each other’s strengths and qualities, which stimulates collaboration. This can
defnitions that had a clear meaning to the company. This would make it easier to help employees adapt to changing working environments and improves the atmosphere
understand the challenges at hand. Subsequently, measurable values were developed, on the work foor, which in turn creates better working conditions.
which helped the company to improve the measurement of the impact on natural
resources and the efect on its employees. Another helpful action was
to compare performances of diferent member frms, as well as sharing their best
“The growing world population
practices and lessons learned. The resulting action plans and additional trainings now help
increase both the living conditions of the employees, and reduce the impact on their
and the increasing level of
environment.
globalisation lead to more
responsibilities and
opportunities.”

21
Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 9 : Innovation and Infrastructure

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation

and Infrastructure
By Robbin-Jan Haar

Two drivers that are crucial to economic growth and equal access to information are
infrastructure and innovation. Especially with over half the world population now living in cities, and
the fact that 4 billion people still do not have access to internet.
What? How? Think diferently about logistics Stimulate research initiatives to drive
SDG 9 ‘Build resilient infrastructure, promote Thinking diferently about logistics is key to make sustainability
inclusive and sustainable industrialisation and changes to a feld of business that has been Innovation in the digital era isn’t a concept that is
foster innovation’, relates to investments made in optimised to near perfection over the past century. exclusively exploited from within the organisation,
industry, innovation and infrastructure to drive Innovations like self-driving trucks, truck as bright ideas come from everywhere and people
economic growth. You might expect that this is platooning, or autonomous ships are great initiatives are increasingly willing to share their ideas— both
particularly relevant for less developed countries, that may very well alter the feld of logistics, online and ofine. The University of Twente, for
but SDG 9 is highly relevant for developed especially from a cost perspective. But these example, hosts the think tank ‘Create Tomorrow’ for
countries where environmental challenges and innovations do not change logistics— they merely which about ten organisations provide their most
energy efciency may be driving the need for SDG substitute for what we already know. Changing challenging issues every year that students can
9. Industry, innovation and logistics to the future of mobility involves thinking solve46. Fun fact: in this year’s edition of Create
infrastructure beneft economy, communication, diferently about logistics, for example through new Tomorrow, half of the cases related to infrastructural
the environment and access to information; urban supply concepts like smart lockers or same- challenges. Clearly SDG 9 is on every agenda.
relevant for every nation. day-delivery pick up points. A perfect example of
this is the Dutch online retailer bol.com who Teaming up with universities or participating in
Why? partnered with Albert Heijn to open over 700 pick- think tanks may help organisations to think big and
With an ever increasing world population, more and up points at the same place where consumers do step aside from the regular path, help to closely
more people living in cities and rising prosperity, their grocery shopping44. think about organisational challenges, and provide
infrastructure becomes more important every day— clear solutions to those challenges.
and not only in terms of asphalt on the ground. It is Furthermore, the future of mobility may involve
true that travel times are increasing, yet in an era Uber-like last mile delivery options that make smart
where not the physical but digital highway is key to use of existing commutes to deliver packages right
economic growth, 4 billion people do not have to your doorstep, or to smart lockers. These asset
access to the internet. With improved physical and sharing or crowd logistics options allow
digital infrastructure products and services will transportation companies to accomplish more and
be more accessible, transparent and cost- efcient. take better advantage of their own networks’
Investing in industry, innovation and infrastructure capacities. Delivery is expected to change from a
also further creates and develops jobs, improves necessary evil to a diferentiator for customers, while
production capacity, reduces the carbon footprint at the same time fostering innovation and relieving
and leverages data usage in production chains. infrastructural burdens45.
Industry 4.043 is a perfect example of how
investments related to SDG 9 can enhance
production, develop the workforce and leverage
data used, ultimately to prosper
economic growth .

22
 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 9 : Innovation and
Infrastructure

Board the industry 4.0 train

Another way to get engaged with SDG 9 is
to board the industry 4.0 train—joining the
fourth industrial revolution. The manufacturing
industry has re-invented itself for several
times in the past few centuries, mostly related
to the physical elements of manufacturing
processes. Now, with ever-increasing data
gathering abilities, the manufacturing process
can be improved by letting insights from
manufacturing data drive the manufacturing
process.

The German chemical giant BASF, for example,

connects their periodic safety inspections to
a digital platform in which mix-ups between
diferent pieces of equipment have been
made virtually impossible, increasing plant
safety and worker safety47. Deloitte Germany
showcases top-notch industry 4.0 innovations
in their Digital Factory located in Düsseldorf. This
candy shop for tech enthusiasts allows
(potential) clients to play around with industry
4.0 factory solutions in a tangible way48.

Industry 4.0 relates to inclusive and sustainable

industrialisation, innovation, and may also afect
infrastructure: smart city49 elements
that connect the physical with the digital
increasingly fnd paths into our lives. A very
simple but great example is the underground
parking garage that shows green lights
above the lots to easily indicate what specifc
parking lot is vacant, preventing driving in
circles endlessly. And sending you further into
despair with every lap. Only to fnd out that
someone else took the parking lot before you.
Recognisable? Put SDG 9 on your agenda.

23
Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 10 : Reduced Inequalities

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

By Jasmijn Korver and Jennifer Muller

Income inequality is on the rise: the richest 10% is earning up to 40% of total global
income, whilst the poorest 10% earn only between 2% and 7% of total global income.
This requires the adoption of policies that empower the lower income earners, regardless
of their sex, race or ethnicity.
What? (Income) equality is an issue that has become a The commercial benefts connected to SDG 10 vary
SDG 10 focuses on reducing inequalities within growing concern in society. Not in the least greatly. For instance, having an equal and diverse
and among countries. When it comes to reducing driven by the millennial generation. They rank workforce is known to increase innovation because
inequality among countries, the least developed this topic as one of the greater variety in perspectives.
countries and most vulnerable nations continue to of the most pressing market fears, as Also, since the millennial generations view this
make inroads into poverty reductions. However, Deloitte’s millennial survey shows51. topic as important, solid actions and efective
inequality still persists and large diferences in communication regarding the companies’ eforts to
accessibility to services like health and education The topic of inequality is often discussed in reduce inequality enhances employer
remain. In fact, while income inequality among societal and regulatory spheres. The various attractiveness. Finally, commercial benefts can be
countries have been reduced, inequality within regulations on diversity and equality are exemplary found in the possibilities to open up new markets.
countries has risen50. To counter this, we should of this. One example of regulation is the quota law,
not just look to governments and plea for efective obligating companies with more than 25 people to How?
policies but acknowledge that businesses have a hire a certain%age of employees with distance to Invest in new markets and customer groups
key role as well. In order to start to understand the labour market, and the action plan for labour In the plan of creating more equality, new markets
the impact businesses have on achieving this goal discrimination52. Additionally, the EU-directive could be discovered that could ofer new business
and how organisations beneft in return we have for non- fnancial information, which came into opportunities. An example of this is investing in the
written this blog. We hope it can provide you force in 2017, obligates larger companies to report health market in emerging countries, e.g. by
with some new insight and inspiration! on diversity in the board. By the introduction of the investing in new technologies or medicine. This
comply or explain regulation, companies risk both gives the emerging markets opportunities to grow,
Why? reputation damage if not adequately explained, or and ofers along with this possibilities to decrease
A 2015 survey of business leaders showed that SDG fnes if not explained at all. Both act as incentives inequality. Additionally, businesses will create new
10 ranks low on the corporate agenda compared to for companies to address the topic of equality commercial opportunities with this, e.g. by
the other SDGs, meaning that when frms cherry- seriously. creating a new customer or investor group.
pick SDGs, improving equality is usually not one of
the chosen SDGs. In our eyes this is unfairly so, as From a more positive perspective, businesses can Not only market types, but also new commercially
working towards SDG 10 can ofer companies not use this topic to stand out from their peers and boost benefcial customer groups could be engaged . An
only social but economic opportunities as well. reputation. As so few companies have publicly example of this is given by the World Economic
Furthermore, there are regulatory and societal embraced this topic, there is still potential to Forum: they indicate it is worthwhile to invest more
pressures making it worth considering—or even become a front–runner, for example by acting ahead in the LGBT community. Not only is the LGBT
wise from a risk perspective—for businesses to start of anticipated regulation like a quota law for female market estimated to be worth more than $3 trillion,
thinking and acting on this topic. board members, which is discussed frequently. it is also being recognised as a powerful market
force. Furthermore, with research showing that
LBGT customers are often loyal to a brand when
it’s supportive of LGBT, this creates opportunities
for customer loyalty53.

24
 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 10 : Reduced Inequalities

Ofer equal opportunities to your own workforce Creating equality through (technological) product and service ofering
The second action that is within the power of the company is to ofer equal Product and services-ofering companies can sometimes use their own
opportunities to its own workforce and with that stimulate diversity. Research products to increase equality and at the same time contribute to the economy
has shown that companies in the top quartile for gender diversity are 15% and their own market.
more likely to have returns above the industry median. For ethnical diversity,
the companies are
even 35% more likely to outperform the For example, the technology sector has improved the lives of many people in
companies in the bottom quartile54. vulnerable situations by ofering them possibilities to participate in society via,
among others, e-health options, digital learning possibilities and online fnancial
Equal opportunities does not only mean being open and transparent about services like banking. The provision of the basic services through digital
selection criteria and salary but can also be created by showing true fexibility platforms and the internet of things can especially have
towards work schedules. And by making sure that people using fexible an impact on low-income or undeveloped countries, but also ofers opportunities
schedules are not afected fnancially—which unfortunately still is the case today, for vulnerable people and people in a difcult fnancial situation56. Developing
especially for women55. and ofering those type of products contribute to equality, and are a new market
source for businesses, which fts the statement earlier this article.

“Research has shown that In short, although at frst sight SDG 10 might not be the cherry you pick from

companies in the top quartile the SDG fruit basket, we hope we have inspired you to reconsider, deliberate,
discuss and decide.

for gender diversity are 15%

more likely to have
returns above the industry
median.”

25
Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 11 : Sustainable Cities and Communities

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

By Erica Kostense-Smit and Jennifer Muller

By 2050, more than 6.5 billion people will live in urban areas; two-thirds of all
humanity. Extreme poverty is often concentrated in these urban spaces, and governments
struggle to accommodate the rising population in these areas. It is therefore essential to come
up with a sustainable planning in order to have safe and afordable housing and proper
infrastructure.
What? Worldwide, it essentially leads to less densely urban sprawl. Both lead to negative, but diferent
With currently half of the world’s population populated cities, with the excepted regions where consequences. However, in all cases, businesses,
dwelling in cities and with levels of urbanisation urban slums have increased. Unplanned urban governments and inhabitants of cities might not all
expected to rise, SDG 11 acknowledges the sprawl is known to enhance CO be chasing the same goals.
2 emissions and pollution per
importance of cities. Not just as a place to live, but
capita and negatively afects sustainable growth.
to work, be creative, conduct business, harbour The report furthermore shows us that the
culture, science and much more. However, due to increased problem of stress on urban areas is not
Economic Situation
the nature of cities, they are also more prone to just a problem of the developing world but also
The health aspect might seem rather obvious;
negative impact like (natural) disasters. For instance, afects cities in all regions, including the Western
however, the situation in New Delhi also illustrates
the micro-climate world. Either through increased poverty and/or
economic consequences57 like a reduction in
in cities makes them more susceptible for heat and climatological efects like rising sea levels. This
productivity of the workforce due to illness, closing
their often coastal locations make foods and makes it even more important for businesses to
of schools and costs of economic degradation. The
hurricanes a more eminent act upon SDG 11.
situation leads to drastic and immediate actions that
risk, together with poverty and crime. For that
afect mobility and accessibility of the city. For
reason SDG 11 focuses on ensuring that cities So, we have established that efects can be diverse,
instance, fights were cancelled and transportation
become and remain a vast pool of opportunities difcult to predict but unfortunately quite serious.
was restricted; disrupting not just daily life for
for all, where everybody has access to basic Nevertheless businesses have the opportunity to
residents, but businesses as well.
services like energy, housing and transportation. contribute to this complex ecosystem of
Complex stakeholders in many ways and through that
Why? contribute to achieving SDG 11. We highlight
The situation in New Delhi also shows us that
Environment & Health
solutions, though sometimes simple or obvious, some examples below: using technology,
You might have seen the front page pictures of the
might not be easily achieved, as diferent obtaining green certifcations for ofce buildings
situation in New Delhi that have been in the
stakeholders have diferent needs and actions are and getting engaged in public private partnerships.
newspaper for the last months, where the smog has
not easily managed. For instance, in the case of
become so bad that it seems like the city is wrapped
New Delhi, the smog is caused by a variety of
in a blanket of smoke. Not only does it afect the
sources like farmers burning stubbles, pollutions
health of residents, it has dominated and changed
from vehicles and factories and a (micro) climate
daily routines. In fact, the toxicity of the smog in
that strengthens formation of dust. This
New Delhi was so high that WHO norms for
combination of factors leading to issues is diferent
healthy air were exceeded multiple times,
for all cities and does not always lead to the same
especially impacting vulnerable groups.
efects. In fact, a study from the WHO58 teaches us
that not all cities react alike to the changes ahead.
An efect often seen when conditions in cities
For example, some cities seem to be more likely to
deteriorate is that people start moving outwards,
develop slums, whilst others are more susceptible
beyond administrative boundaries. This efect
to the earlier discussed
seems counter- intuitive and is called urban
sprawl.

26
 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 11 : Sustainable Cities and Communities

How? But even if the list above might seem too Public–private partnerships:
Technology technical or perhaps far-fetched for your company, more A third example of how organisations can
Think about the use of drones for aerial direct measures and company relevant action can be contribute to sustainable, inclusive cities, is to seek
transportation and inspection, social robots that aid taken. collaboration initiatives. Public-private partnerships are
professional care takers in their jobs to diminish often set up to contribute to this goal, and gives
loneliness Sustainable ofce buildings businesses the opportunity to contribute to public
for elderly and in that way contribute to the A direct and very measurable impact companies have initiatives. Examples of this are green deals around cities
inclusiveness of cities, or 3D printing that reduces waste right now is through their ofce buildings. Buildings have a like the Green Deal Smart Energy Cities65, and the
and enables minimal storage, making cities more large environmental impact. In fact, they account for an Human Cities Coalition66. The coalition is focused on
environmentally sustainable. The Deloitte Smart Cities average of more than forty% of the world’s energy use and contributing to SDG 11 and brings together public and
Report of 201559 gives insight into how making cities more are responsible for almost forty% of the CO private partners to infuence the development of cities.
2 emissions60.
smart through the use of technology can make them more Example projects are fnancing mechanisms for
To assist companies in diminishing the environmental
resilient. Disruptive technology can play an important role. infrastructure projects and creating afordable housing.
impact of ofce buildings, ‘green building’ guidelines can be
used. Three well-known examples are LEED61,
The internet of Things (IoT) should also be on this As diverse and unpredictable the consequences for
BREEAM62 or WELL63 certifcation. Though each has its
list, as costs for sensors have never been so low and cities and their inhabitants can be, so too can contributions
own characteristics, it is well worth investing the time to
wireless communications are widely available, the to SDG 11, as we hope we have illustrated above. And it is
determine which type can help you and your company
possibilities for IoT are endless. What to think of using likely that people, governments and companies have their
further. Besides, it is not just the environment that benefts
sensors to optimise trafc lights which will increase the own reasons for making them. Either there is a business
from a reduction of CO
accessibility of cities, or measure microclimate on roads 2 emissions. Occupants of LEED Gold case, or a highly motivated CEO, or something else
and indicate optimal waste collection routes, all certifed buildings are for example almost completely. Important is that you choose something you can
contributing to a healthy and clean city? 30. more satisfed compared to non-LEED do well. Do not try to do everything but focus on what you
rated building occupants due to higher comfort levels, can actually change most signifcantly in order to make an
Companies can also help in crisis- management resulting even in a lower absence rates64. impact. Set your mind to it, stick your neck out and do not
solutions so that cities, companies and residents can act forget to share and celebrate success—or as we at Deloitte
quickly when needed. Think about cyber-attacks or extreme call it ‘Making an impact that matters’.
weather conditions. Relevant in this light is for instance
communication strategies to streamline the information
from the many stakeholders, their interests, and facilitate
alignment or problem solving. Digital solutions and big data
are expected to play an important role in this.

27
Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 12 : Responsible Consumption

SDG 12: Responsible Consumption

and Production
By Erica Kostense-Smit and Robbin-Jan Haar

Reducing our ecological footprint by changing the way we produce and consume goods
and resources is essential to achieve economic growth and sustainable development. This can
range from efcient management of our shared natural resources, the way we dispose of toxic
waste and pollutants, to recycling and reducing waste.
What? Create economical and societal value Energy efciency
SDG 12 relates primarily to promoting resource and A trend is noticeable in which organisations focus Besides the obvious, and still not completely
energy efciency both in consumption and on adding value to the ecosystem. Within this utilised opportunity of upgrading to renewable
production. This implies that the societal approach, organisations take responsibility for energy sources and efcient heating and lighting
responsibility for SDG 12 does not only relate to social, ecological and economic impact. From plans for an organisation, the supply chain ofers
businesses, but also to consumers. Doing more with source, to end use. By creating better insights in a broad ranges of improvements. An example of
less sounds like a simple return on investment. areas of infuence, positive efects can be increased infuence on the ecosystem regarding energy
Returning less follows the societal trend towards a and negative efects reduced in- and outside of the efciency, which has become more pressing in
circular economy, which is key in maintaining our boundaries of the organisation. current society, is the issue of online delivery and
current standard of living. There are huge returns for e-commerce retailers. The average e-
opportunities to improve energy efciency, reduce How? commerce-wide return rate lies between
landfll, increase recycling and reduce water spillage Economic and societal value 25. to 40%, while the return rate for brick-
globally, yet they may hardly be known. This blog You need to know the potential in order to see the and-mortar stores averages around 9%68,69. One
tackles some of these opportunities related to SDG potential. Many companies simply do not know that may argue that returns are made too easy compared
12. their energy consumption is above average or where to driving back to a store, parking your car or
their waste stalling your bike, and waiting in line in front of a
Why? ends up. Can we benchmark recycling rates? Do counter where you have to sign a receipt before your
Increase savings you know where your waste ends up? And which return is accepted. Yet consumers demand online
Many organisations are starting to reduce their part of production is most damaging to our retailers to make returning their goods easy, and
carbon footprint not only out of an idealistic drive, environment? For that reason, it could be very retailers are also incentivised to do this. The reason
but also simply because it reduces costs. In Western insightful to conduct a Life Cycle Assessment for this
businesses, quick wins often have already been (LCA) for your main products or services. This is that fast and easy returns lower the risk
established: adjusted heating systems or lease way, you know where in the supply chain the of selling against reduced proft margins70.
contracts that involve electric cars. However, we highest CO
2 reduction can be achieved.
still see many examples that not all opportunities Returns can be made very efcient and relatively
Technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT)
are detected and utilised. Ofce waste, for example. emission-friendly from a supply chain point of
combined with dashboarding can give your
In Dutch practice alone we have seen%ages of view, yet the real issue with returns starts with the
organisation real-time insights in your performance
residual ofce waste in comparable client situations consumption of the product. Return-awareness may
on SDG 12, even across your supply chain.
that range between 10%-60%. This can actually therefore be one solution to the problem, as it
cost the organisation a large sum of money. encourages potential web-shoppers to rethink their
An organisation is as sustainable as its third parties.
Lighting would be another example: the UN consumption.
If that third party is a warehouse that packs your
indicated that by switching to energy-efcient
products in boxes double the size of the goods you
lightbulbs alone, 50% to 80% of light-related
sell, your organisation may not be as sustainable as
energy could be saved67. These are just simple
you think. So when you know your own facts and
mainstream examples but there is a world out there
fgures, it may be time to get to know those of your
loaded with possibilities to reduce both costs and
suppliers and clients as well.
carbon footprint at the same time.

28
 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 12 : Responsible
Consumption

Resource efciency However, we feel that every step in the right Sometimes it can be as simple as making a plastic
The same challenges for energy efciencies are valid direction is valuable—no matter how small the bottle translucent instead of black so it can be
for resource efciency. Luckily, with the growing environmental benefts, since recycled. Another example would be to provide
attention for and awareness of the circular economy, it contributes to awareness. This in turn infuences extra bins in order to avoid that people use cofee
more and more companies see the need and benefts culture as well. So, whilst asking yourself the cups as mini bins during the day, in order to throw
of embracing ‘circularity’ in order to preserve necessary questions whether your current business it all out as residual waste at the end
resources. Very often we model is sustainable in a circular economy, there of the day. Very often, your personnel will have
see that this can be a difcult concept to grasp. might be actions you can take right now. For multiple suggestions for small improvements.
Implementing a whole new circular business instance: does your purchase department take Listening to these and taking action might have a
model can also be challenging. In fact, a recent circularity into account? Do they bigger impact than you can imagine.
study71 showed that have mandate and budget for this? Is it stimulated?
the barriers to implementing a circular economy How are recycling rates in your company? Below Reporting is key to enhance impact
are predominantly of a cultural nature. See fgure average perhaps, and Regardless of your organisation’s size, profts or
1. if so, why? Have you asked your recycler for industry, we believe reporting on your
insight into your waste streams? Is the design organisation’s SDG 12 performance might just be
and marketing department aware of the impact the start in stimulating more sustainable
their choices have on, for example, recycling consumption and production. It might just be the
possibilities of products? start of putting SDG 12 into action, making an even
larger impact than before. Wonder how you can
enhance your impact? Get engaged with SDG 12.

Figure 1: Heatmap of Circular Economy Barriers (Deloitte and University of Utrecht, 2017)

29
Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 13 : Climate Action

SDG 13: Climate Action

By Jennifer Muller

There is no country or person in the world who does not experience the efects of climate
change: earthquakes, tsunamis, tropical cyclones, to name a few of the drastic consequences. The
changing climate can have a long-lasting impact on our climate system, which makes it essential
to take action now!
What? Furthermore, an emission reduction target of 49% How?
To address climate change, countries adopted the by 2030 has been included in the coalition SDG 13 is about the core of the Paris agreement:
Paris Agreement at the COP21 in Paris on agreement of Rutte III72. For sectors covered by how to prepare for the impact of climate change and
December 12, 2015. All countries agreed to work the EU emissions trading system (EU ETS), there reduce this impact by reducing greenhouse gas
on limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees is currently an EU reduction target of 43% by emissions. Creating clarity on how business strategy
Celsius. This agreement shows the main focus of 2030 compared to 2005. There are about 450 can have an impact on both
SDG 13, which is reducing the efects of, and Dutch companies listed under the EU ETS. These the consequences as well as the causes of climate
combatting climate change, by reducing emissions. companies represent about 45% change is therefore essential. Below, we will argue
of Dutch greenhouse gas emissions. They should that sufcient fnancial resources and the use of
Many SDGs are interconnected; SDG 13 is no therefore take emission-reducing measures in technologies are key in contributing to SDG 13.
exception. Climate change afects, for example, order to achieve the target of
water resources (SDG 6), health (SDG 3) and 49. by 2030. Risks and measures
biodiversity (SDG 14 & SDG 15). The As stated by the Task Force on Climate- Related
interconnection is therefore a clear two-way The impact of climate change on your business Financial Disclosures, global warming caused by
relationship: SDGs can reinforce each other, which model greenhouse gas emissions poses serious risks to the
makes it possible to create a positive, upward spiral. The efects of climate change put pressure on almost global economy and will have an impact on many
every revenue stream of businesses, directly and/or economic sectors73. On global as well as on a
Why? indirectly. Business models can be afected when national level, extensive research has been
There is no country in the world that does not the direct production process of a business/ supplier performed on the impact on foods, droughts,
experience the efects of climate change. is related to, or depends on, agriculture or water. etcetera. Although conducted with the best
Ecosystem changes (rising sea levels, drought, Rising temperatures may, for example, decrease intentions, these reports are often used by policy
biodiversity loss) and health & safety damages— water resources or harm agricultural processes. One makers rather than businesses. This is a shame,
and the costs associated with that—hurt society, could also think about air pollution harming since they can help estimate risks for businesses, as
including businesses. business processes via polluted water or other the (fnancial) implications of damage to assets,
natural products. Especially for suppliers in non- bottlenecks in the supply chain or logistic issues
Regulatory developments Western countries, natural disasters or extreme can have large efects. By going through the process
Recent regulatory developments show the weather can afect their business processes. of such a risk assessment, insight is obtained on
importance of climate change measures and how to prepare, and on how to create or adjust
policies. The fact that the Dutch Ministry of opportunities for efcient development of new
Economic Afairs recently expanded to be the products/services or access to new markets.
Ministry of Economics Afairs and Climate, shows
that climate (change) is becoming a higher priority.

30
 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 13 : Climate
Action

Energy technologies and its challenges: Financing technologies Secondly, it is important to create clarity on the
New technological developments can Although the technologies are often available, opportunities of investments for both the business
help businesses to reduce greenhouse gas. Reducing adopting the technologies often depends on the and its stakeholders. To create this clarity, risk-
greenhouse gas emission can, among other options, return on investment, which often takes longer for scenarios should be formulated to show in what way
be achieved by switching from fossil fuels to new, innovative solutions. Innovative solutions are climate change and the business are related.
renewable energy. However, challenges are still frequently compared to more conventional Identifying diferent scenarios can be done following
connected to this transition. The current challenge technologies. This causes the prevalence of the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial
of renewable energy is to supply energy in the same conventional methods over innovative methods due Disclosures guidelines: voluntary, consistent
reliable way as the current grids do. This unfolds to short-term fnancial opportunities. climate-related fnancial risk disclosures75. These
the discussion of keeping coal and gas as a backup If businesses want to make a stronger cause for diferent risk scenarios show which types of climate
plan as long as a solution is not yet implemented at energy reduction technologies, one should try to change risks businesses are most vulnerable to, and
a high level. The technology exists to transition to see those investments more as an exploitation on which opportunities for investment are present.
renewable energy though. However, since this the long term, and take long-term impact into
development is still in its infancy, a solid account. An example of this can be found in Matching the goals and targets with the needs and
comparison with the current, reliant energy supply current projects in which systems are being set up ideas of the business and its stakeholders
cannot be made. Changing to these new to enable households to trade electricity through increases the opportunities for investments and
technologies therefore takes courage. For blockchain without a third party74. attaining targets, resulting into a clear
businesses, it means their contribution can be found contribution to SDG 13.
in setting up pilots in their organisations’ ecosystem Gaining support for climate targets from
in order to boost the renewable energy experience. stakeholders
Room for innovation should be present to achieve In order to gain support for decisions on climate
this breakthrough though, in which fnancial change outside and inside the organisation, it is
perspectives play an important role. important to create visibility on this topic. Firstly, it
is important that businesses integrate climate change
in their strategies with clear targets to monitor.
These targets should ideally match with the demands
and preferences of the organisation and its
stakeholders. This way, clear actions can be taken
and it also creates support for achieving the targets.

31
Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 14 : Life Below Water

SDG 14: Life Below Water

By Helen Sonneveld

The world’s oceans drive global systems that make the Earth habitable for humankind. In
addition, over three billion people depend on marine and coastal biodiversity for their livelihoods.
Protecting this vital resource is therefore essential for humanity.

What? Why? Also Adidas and Stella McCartney embraced

SDG 14 is about protecting our oceans, seas and Even though a link to the ocean and marine the increasing demand for sustainable
marine biodiversity. People are very dependent on resources is not immediately evident for your fashion by using recycled ocean plastic in
the oceans and seas as they represent 99% of the organisation, there are still multiple reasons to some of their shoe designs83.
living space on this planet76. Oceans and seas ofer engage with SDG #14.
huge economic and social value throughout the Business continuity
world. As stated in a recent study by Deloitte Meet growing consumer demand Recycling of (ocean) plastics does not only serve
Australia, the Great Barrier Reef alone already has It often make us feel hopeless when we see images the purpose of meeting growing customer demands,
the economic, social and icon asset value of $56 of a plastic soup roughly the size it will also continue to become more important for
billion. In addition, the reef supports 64,000 jobs and of France drifting in the ocean. A number of business continuity. Since sustainability and social
contributes $6.4 billion to the Australian economy77. organisations, such as The Ocean Cleanup, aim to responsibility topics move higher on the political
Garbage such as plastic bags, pet bottles and old remove this garbage, but also consumers and regulatory agenda, it is very likely that
fshing gear pollute our oceans and seas. But also increasingly feel the urge to stop their ‘personal regulations for the use of certain materials such as
barely visible plastic fbers derived from synthetic contribution’ to this plastic soup. The growing plastics, fbers or toxic substances, become
cloths, or toxic chemicals disposed via wastewater demand for more environmentally responsible accentuated84. In order to mitigate the risk of being
have an undeniable negative impact. Synthetic feece products unable to use certain products due to more
jackets, for example, release on average 1.7 grams of has led to increased performances restrictive regulations, it is essential to keep
microfbers with each wash78. Such contaminations for organisations who promote their sustainability searching for other, innovative (raw) materials.
eventually end up in our food chain through commitment. Where 50% of consumers were said
bioaccumulation and the concentration of toxins in to be willing to spend more on environment and
larger animals, which leads to poorer health for society friendly products and services in 2013,
people eating these fsh79. The urgency to force back 66. stated that in 2015; and consumers’
pollution and clean up the oceans is tremendous. willingness will keep rising81.Companies that tap
According to a recent study published by the into the opportunity of this expanding consumer base
Environment Science & Technology, the ocean could can positively improve sales when they bring
end up containing one ton of plastic for every three products to the market that contribute to nature
tons of fnfsh if no action is taken now80. positively. As an example, the clothing brand G-Star
launched a sustainable collection called ‘Raw for the
Ocean’, where plastics retrieved from the shorelines
where used in their apparel designs82.

32
 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 14 : Life Below
Water

How? Use waste as a resource Eliminate plastic By applying Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and
A study from McKinsey & Company and the Ocean It makes sense that organisations cannot adopt new analytics to wastewater measurement systems, potential
Conservancy estimated that certain plastics will still be recycled materials in their production processes in the defects in the production process can be predicted88. Using
recognisable after 400 years in the ocean85. This gives even short term. However, quantifying the opportunity is a good analytics on wastewater composition can also provide
more reason to fnd ways to reduce, re-use and recycle as starting point. Identify, for example, the usage of plastic in insight on the quality of your upstream process, which can
much as possible. Reducing waste increases efciency and the value chain, and extend this study to the larger supply improve decision- making capabilities. The slightest change
can eventually lower costs. Thinking about waste as a chain. What are the true costs of plastic disposal? Is it in wastewater composition can be caused by unbalanced
source for new products will encourage product designers really necessary that pallets, boxes and single pieces of production lines, which means that processes are not
and manufactures to think critically about their product products are all wrapped up in plastic? Has the use of optimally using their resources. Value from cleansing
design process. The Circular Economy encourages bioplastics been considered instead? And what packaging wastewater can therefore be gained for both operational
industries to consider existing (recycled) resources for the materials are suppliers using that can be avoided? Since performance as for the environment.
creation of new products (see SDG 12 for the Circular the time spent on unwrapping raw materials from plastic
Economy concept). One of the organisations that can be allocated as waste, it has no added value. In case If your organisation is more service oriented, there
incorporated circular thinking in its business model is plastic usage is unavoidable, switch to bioplastics and are also ways to contribute to SDG 14. An example is
Auping. They strive towards a full circular organisation by eliminate fossil-based plastics where possible. the partnership between Deloitte and the Ocean Cleanup.
2020, when all resources used in their mattresses can be By sharing Deloitte’s knowledge and expertise, Deloitte
disassembled and reused for new products. That lowers Make value of your wastewater by using can support The Ocean Cleanup to further
waste and decreases the need for raw materials86. It has analytics professionalise their organisation and operations, so they
even become easier for organisations to check the A less tangible way of pollution than plastic is toxic become more successful.
recyclability of their own products and resources online. substances mixed into industrial wastewater. Luckily for
There are many websites that ofer such analyses. our European waters, legislation is strict and the fnes on
incorrect wastewater disposal are high87. Industries put
much efort into wastewater cleansing, which has led—until
recently—to a limited number of benefts other than sparing
the environment and playing by the rules.

33
Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 15 : Life on Land

SDG 15: Life on Land

By Robbin-Jan Haar

Land degradation, the loss of arable land, drought and desertifcation intensifes every
single year. This leads to the loss of 12 million hectares, it afects poor communities on a
global scale and is a leading cause that 8% of the animal kingdom are extinct and 22% are at
risk of extinction. Urgent action therefore is needed in order to prevent this from happening.
What? Key to survival for many businesses An increasing amount of companies recognise that
Research done by the WWF resulted in the In 2016, a report by Fairtrade was released warning ‘natural capital’ is becoming scarce, which is a
shocking conclusion that our planet is losing 27 for the efects of climate change on cofee production. limiting factor for their activities. This applies both
soccer felds of forest every minute, signifcantly Cofee, the second most valuable commodity to access to resources on the one hand and to the
reducing the world’s possibilities to mitigate exported by developing countries (accounting for need to reduce the environmental burden through
climate change89. With the world committed to roughly $19 billion in 2015), faces extinction by the production on the other94. Tony’s Chocolonely, for
the Paris agreement, life on land is pivotal in end of this century if no signifcant action to reduce example, developed
changing global warming. At frst, facts like these climate change is followed through91. Not only a ‘beantracker’ system to create more transparency
may seem as something that would be a goal of an would this have a disastrous efect on cofee in their supply chain7. With increased transparency,
ecologically focused NGO, but due to the cyclical companies, but also on the productivity of other Tony’s Chocolonely is able to see which cocoa
nature of SDG 15, this SDG relates to, if not companies: employees do not tend to stay very farmers have supplied what quantity of beans,
facilitates many other SDGs. This makes life on productive on tea alone. enabling them to source their raw materials in a
land a SDG worth placing on an organisation’s sustainable manner.
priority list. The cofee industry is just one of many examples of
industries highly dependent on life on land. In Another organisation making big eforts to source
Why? essence, every business that depends on any kind sustainably is Unilever. Being one of the largest
Facilitates other SDGs of farming either has to quit or has to adapt to users of palm oil in the world, Unilever committed
Land can be considered the cornerstone of economic changing circumstances. And with food and to source all their palm oil sustainably by 2019 (and
growth: we use land to build, for transportation and agriculture having a global market value of roughly are already right on track)95. As palm oil harvest is
to grow crops. Without good quality land, there $8 trillion92, it might just be worth to have a closer one of the main causes of deforestation, this links to
wouldn’t be economic growth—or an economy at look at SDG 15. Unilever’s ambition to have zero net deforestation
all, since it would be impossible to ensure a basic
by 2028. One way in which Unilever has brought
standard of life with decent health or food. For How? these two commitments to practice is by cancelling
example, plant life accounts for as much as 80% of Sustainable sourcing
its contracts with one of their palm
our diet90, making life on land vital for human If a chain is as strong as its weakest link, then a
oil suppliers when their sustainability
survival. This cyclical nature of land makes it the supply chain is as sustainable as its suppliers. It
certifcation was suspended. Only after progress
bridge between many other SDGs, like SDG 6 is for that reason that organisations increasingly
was shown from the supplier’s side, Unilever
which is about clean water and sanitation. The buy their raw materials or ofce supplies from
proceeded sourcing again from this supplier96.
amazon rainforest alone evaporates 20 billion tons sustainable sources. For cofee alone, roughly
of water every day, making this forest a key source 20% is sourced according to sustainability
to prevent drought and desertifcation. Drought and standards93 with various labels, seals and
desertifcation ultimately afect crops and trademarks being used and launched.
biodiversity, leading to low agricultural productivity,
and vice versa.

34
 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 15 : Life on
Land

Another interesting way of sustainable sourcing is changing the way we Collaboration and guts
source information: for example by using the free search engine Ecosia97, For some SDGs the results are immediately tangible, but SDG 15 can be a little
which donates tougher for organisations to engage with and to show immediate efect. Often,
80. of their profts to planting trees. At the moment of writing, Ecosia sustainability eforts are associated with the prisoner’s dilemma; it only works
has already planted more than 23 million trees just through people like you and when everyone is on board. Yet to make an impact that matters, we shouldn’t
me using their search engine. Information that fghts back deforestation. let the prisoner’s dilemma keep us from contributing to a better world. To
make an impact that matters, we should just start by building a future. Even if
Embed proper recycling practices we start small. Let’s transform our wasteful future into a hopeful future. Let’s
Do you remember the last time you threw that piece of rubbish in the bin make an impact.
while
you knew that you should have actually recycled it? If you do (and I do),
then defnitely keep on reading.
“With the world committed to
With an average Dutch citizen producing nearly 8,000 kilograms of waste
the Paris agreement, life on land
every year98, waste has a serious efect on environmental degradation. Europe
is doing very well in terms of landfll, but in the United States, still nearly 70%
is pivotal in changing global
of all waste is landflled99, harming water quality, biodiversity and fertility.
warming.”
Recycling is one way to signifcantly reduce landflling and hence, improve life
on land. Global shoe and apparel brand Adidas included recycling as part of
their supply chain with their ‘Make Every Thread Count’ programme.
Consumers can drop of old shoes and apparel (not just from Adidas), which are
later picked up by a specialised company who sorts, distributes and recycles the
material100. You could honestly say Adidas gets its kicks from recycling.

35
Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 16 : Peace and Justice

SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

By Michiel van der Valk

Sustainable development cannot be reached without peace, stability, human rights and efective
governance. The world is clearly divided, and this is expected to increase even more. Some countries
have the luck of experiencing sustained levels of peace, while other countries are trapped in endless
cycles of confict and violence.
What? Why? Responsible taxation and the Panama Investors and the general public asking for supplier
Our globalising world ofers lots of opportunities. papers information to be made public can be seen as a
Through integration of goods, services, capital and In April 2016, news was released relating to tax second reason why SDG 16 can be of major
ideas, hundreds of millions of people have been evasion or avoidance practices through ofshore importance. Organisations should be held
lifted out of poverty and an increasing availability of accounts. Research shows an estimated loss of tax accountable for their actions, which means doing
products and services is observed101. At the same up to 237 billion for Europe alone104. Although things right even when no one is watching. Being
time, globalisation brings challenges such as unfair (some of) these transactions may be legally transparent can help in cases of inquiry and can be
trade practices, tax evasion and the unequal division justifable, it is the morality that caused the uproar. considered a valuable attribute of a company.
of its benefts among people and regions102. The resulting reputational damage, for both
Globalisation comes with an increased level of
complexity in our supply chains, where the
companies and wealthy individuals, ofers plenty of
reasons why it is benefcial to be transparent and to
“Sharing data can
perceptions of risk and workplace safety difer per
culture103. This asks for a level of responsibility.
engage with strong institutions.
make an organization
SDG 16 focuses on this responsibility, promoting
Supply chain transparency and the garment
industry
more attractive to
inclusive and peaceful societies, with access to
justice through accountable institutions at all levels.
The tragedy of Rana Plaza in Bangladesh where a
building collapsed, killing more than 1,100 people,
outsiders or help
At frst sight,
this might be considered a matter for
occurred nearly fve years ago. Rana Plaza was not
the frst of its kind, but the scale and impact was
afect change.”
government. However, technology is changing enough to awaken many. In response, the Apparel
ever more rapidly. This makes it hard for and Footwear Supply Chain Transparency Pledge
regulators to keep up with innovation. was created. Yet, in 2017, only 17 out of 72 apparel
Combined with increased scrutiny from the and footwear companies were said to fully align with
public, companies and the government have a the pledge standards105. Called out by their name,
shared responsibility. companies are now listed with their status of
alignment.

36
 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 16 : Peace and
Justice

How? Dealing with data Supply chain thinking

Availability and access to data is a valuable resource for organisations. Yet it is As touched upon in the Why section, responsibility does not end at one’s front gate.
important to consider what information you need, why you need it, who should have It concerns the entire chain, from cradle to cradle (unfortunately still too often to grave).
access to it and how long it should remain available. In order to understand an organisation’s supply chain, it is important to realise which
On the one hand, it can be benefcial to make data publicly available. Informing suppliers and which sub- suppliers it is involved with.
stakeholders about performance, governance, targets and eforts helps them understand
your business. Just the experience of considering what to report, how to collect the Examples of how to get involved are a supplier code of conduct, a certifcation
information and to whom it might be interesting can provide valuable insights. Here it is scheme or supplier meetings in which best practices are shared. Involvement in the chain
important to not only disclose fnancial, but also non- fnancial information. can point out opportunities for improvement and enhances relationships with customers,
whilst being in control of the chain. For suppliers, being transparent about the work
A way for companies to disclose this information would be through annual reports or performed and resources used can be of added value in tenders or when providing
on their website. Disclosing information to the public, ranging from crime to safety fgures, information for supplier requests.
can help policymakers better understand what is going on. Deloitte has also analysed open
data through their State of the State research, providing insights in, for example, education, Being in control of social topics such as working conditions or environmental
healthcare, the real estate market and (cyber) crime106. aspects such as sourcing of materials can help in responsive and representative decision
making. Commitments here can help promote more peaceful and inclusive societies,
Sharing data can make an organisation more attractive to outsiders or help afect creating access to justice for
change. Yet it is important to consider which information is shared with whom and why. As all and build efective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.
of May 25th 2018, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is enforced. This efort
of harmonising privacy laws was designed to protect natural persons with regard to the By taking the efort to explore what SDG 16 can mean for an organisation, you will
processing of personal data and the free movement of such data107. For more information fnd that it can be a facilitator for many other SDGs. Being able to take responsibility in
on how to comply with this regulation whilst being able to beneft from the advantages data data, supply chain or governance enables organisations to take on other sustainable
can ofer, we kindly refer you to our GDPR articles108. development practices.

37
Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 17 : Partnerships for the Goals

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

By Linda van den Breul

Today, the world is more interconnected than ever before. This can be of great
help in improving access to technology and knowledge and to help developing
countries in managing their debt.
What? Partnerships beneft the partners involved How? Public-private partnerships
The last SDG of this series is the most Many people think that SDGs are a form of Solving complex problems are almost impossible
comprehensive one that can enable the other goals. philanthropy. That could be, but in many instances without partnerships between both private and
SDG 17 is all about collaboration on a global scale. there is a solid business case for companies to public entities. For example, within Deloitte we see
The only way for the SDGs to be realised is when sustain development through global partnerships. more and more public-private partnerships to
people, governments, companies and other Let’s take a look at Unilever, a Dutch consumer advance smart cities. Whether the goal is to improve
organisations cooperate rather than compete. This goods giant. When the multinational frm partnered public healthcare or to expand free Wi-Fi-access,
SDG focuses on cooperation in the areas of fnance, with local governments and health organisations to municipalities are increasingly looking to partner
technology, trade, policy and partnerships. fnd a solution for SDG 6, it helped to improve with private and other public organisations to
washing habits of a billion people. The efect for accomplish their goals. These partnerships can help
Why? Unilever was a boost in their soap sales, while the overcome funding barriers and often rely on
SDG 17 could kill many birds with one stone efect for society was a 44% reduction of child technology to reduce costs and increase value. An
We all beneft when the world delivers on the 17 deaths due to bad sanitation110. interesting example comes from the city of New
SDGs. This would create market opportunities of up York that was looking for a solution for its 8,400
to $12 trillion annually and add 380 million new Another example is from Kenyan telco- provider pay phones, for which the use for the public and
jobs by 2030109. Partnerships are a main way to Safaricom, which partnered with political parties income for the municipality decreases every day in
achieve these goals. When governments, people, and content service providers for the 2012 elections the time of smartphones. The city of New York
companies and NGOs cooperate, these goals can be to make sure that infammatory messages were not formed a partnership with Qualcomm, Titan and
reached easier and better then when acting alone. broadcasted111. This did not only help SDG 16 by Control Group to replace the obsolete payphones for
Also multiple goals could be reached, killing many preventing large scale violence, as was seen in the smart kiosks, ofering free WiFi, maps, transportation
birds with one stone. aftermath of their previous elections in 2007, but updates, video calls, smartphone charging and more.
also ensured that the telecom company could Due to an advertiser model, the partnership could
operate in a more stable country which increased fund the project without public funds and even
revenue potential and reduced operational costs. In increased the $17 million income from payphones to
addition, the company’s brand recognition increased $500 million in advertisement income. In addition,
signifcantly due to its willingness to take up issues the project created 100-150 direct jobs and 650
of national importance. support jobs112. From examples like these we
learned key practices for the success of a public-
private partnership, which includes setting the
objectives, assessment of the available assets,
thorough understanding of the business case and
model and building (local) support.

38
 Sustainable Development Goals | SDG 17 : Partnerships for the
Goals

“The only way

for the SDGs to
a
l

be realised is
E
d

when people,
p
a

governments,
W
o

companies
and other
organisations
e
m

cooperate rather
t
i

than compete.”
t
o
homes.

A single NGO could possibly also build the solar

panels and thereby reach SDG 7, but
by partnering with the local community
and diferent organisations and together
sharing knowledge and technology and
promoting sustainable technologies, also
SDG 1, SDG 4 and SDG 5 were reached.
When you partner with local communities,
chances are higher that the goals will be
achieved. In addition, our experience is
that projects with local support can attract
private partners and funding easier.

39
Sustainable Development Goals | End Notes

End Notes

01 Sustainable Development Goals (2018) Sustainable Development Goal 1, from: https://sustainabledevelopment. un.org/sdg1
02 Deloitte (2017) Deloitte Millennial Survey 2017, from: https://www2.deloitte.com/nl/nl/pages/human-capital/ articles/millenial-
survey.html
03 World Bank (2008) World Development Report 2008, from: https://siteresources.worldbank.org/INTWDR2008/
Resources/WDR_00_book.pdf
04 World Food Programme (2018) Zynga and WFP fght hunger, from: http://www.wfp.org/zynga
05 Deloitte (2018) How to (not) successfully fail at organizing innovation, from http://publications.deloitte.nl/ innovation-5-key-
lessons
06 Psychology Today (2012) Our hierarchy of needs, from: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/hide-and- seek/201205/our-
hierarchy-needs
07 DSM (2017) A breakthrough in rice fortifcation, from: https://www.dsm.com/products/nip/en_US/
productsservices/productsservices-nutririce.html
08 Institute of management services (2018) ABC Analysis / Pareto Analysis, from: http://www.ims-productivity.com/ page.
cfm/content/ABCPareto-analysis/
09 Duolingo (2018) Homepage, from: https://www.duolingo.com/
10 Noodle Partners (2018) Homepage, from: https://www.noodle-partners.com/
11 Knewton (2018) Homepage, from: https://www.knewton.com/
12 United Nations (2018) ONE ELEUTHERA - Center for Training and Innovation,
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13 United Nations (2018) The ILead Program, from: https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/partnership/?p=13046 14 American Progress
(2014) The Economic Importance of Women’s Rising Hours of Work, from: http://www.
americanprogress.org/issues/labor/report/2014/04/10/87638
15 Economist (2011) Closing the gap, from: http://www.economist.com/node/21539928 16 Hufngton
Post (2016) The Issue of Gender Equality — What Can Your Business Do?
17 from: http://www.hufngtonpost.com/advertising-week/the-issue-of-gender-equal_b_9685784.html 18 The role of calculative
attachment in the relationship between diversity climate and retention (2011), David M. Kaplan et al., from:
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/hrm.20413/abstract
19 Fortune (2015) These male CEOs and world leaders are getting creative about gender equality, from:
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20 Hindustan Unilever Limited (2018) Enhancing livelihoods through Project Shakti, from: https://www.hul.co.in/ sustainable-
living/case-studies/enhancing-livelihoods-through-project-shakti.html
21 United Nations Economic and Social Council (2017) Progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals, from:
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22 United Nations Economic and Social Council (2017) Progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals, from:
http://www.un.org/ga/search/view_doc.asp?symbol=E/2017/66&Lang=E

40
 Sustainable Development Goals | End
Notes

23 United Nations Development Programme (2016) UNDP Support to the Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, from:
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2030-agenda/
24 Sustainable Build (2018) Pollution from construction, from: http://www.sustainablebuild.co.uk/ pollutionfromconstruction.html
25 Toilet Board Coalition (2018) Homepage, from: http://www.toiletboard.org/
26 United Nations (2018) Sustainable Development Goals, from: https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/energy/ 27 African
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28 United Nations (2018) Afordable and clean energy: why it matters, from: https://www.un.org/ sustainabledevelopment/wp-
content/uploads/2016/08/7_Why-it-Matters_Goal-7_CleanEnergy_2p.pdf
29 Deloitte (2016) Using renewable energy to drive supply chain innovation, from: https://www2.deloitte.com/content/
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31 SDG Knowledge Hun (2017) The role of sustainable energy access in the migration debate, from: http://sdg.iisd.org/ commentary/guest-
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32 EcoChain (2018) News, from: https://www.ecochain.com/nl/news/39/21/hosta
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34 Global Reporting Initiative (2016) Measuring impact: how business accelerates the Sustainable Development Goals, from:
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37 United Nations (2018) Sustainable Development Goal 8, from: https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdg8 38 BBC (2016) Qatar
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39 Deloitte (2015) From brawn to brains: the impact of technology on jobs in the UK, from: https://www2.deloitte.com/
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40 International Labour Organization (2018) Goal #8: Decent work and economic growth, from: http://www.ilo.org/ global/topics/sdg-
2030/goal-8/lang--en/index.htm
41 Global Slavery Index (2016) Europe, from: https://www.globalslaveryindex.org/region/europe/
42 Deloitte (2018) 2017 Global Human Capital Trends, from: https://www2.deloitte.com/insights/us/en/focus/human- capital-trends.html

41
Sustainable Development Goals | End Notes

43 YouTube (2016) Industry 4.0: Exploring the world of connected enterprises | Deloitte Insights, from: https://www. youtube.com/watch?
v=ktcRXyE8SaY
44 Bol.com (2013) Albert Heijn en Bol.com zetten met ruim 700 afhaalpunten volgende stap in online winkelen, from:
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45 Deloitte (2017) The future of freight, from: https://www2.deloitte.com/insights/us/en/focus/future-of-mobility/ future-of-freight-
simplifying-last-mile-logistics.html
46 Create Tomorrow (2018) Students, from: http://www.createtomorrow.nl/en/
47 BASF (2018) Smart manufacturing, from: https://www.basf.com/en/company/about-us/digitalization-at-basf/smart- manufacturing.html
48 YouTube (2016) Welcome to the Deloitte Digital Factory, from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3qIIh_Jm8ME 49 YouTube
(2017) The promise of Smart Cities – At&T and Deloitte Infographic, from: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=mWHX_o9piHs
50 United Nations (2018) Goal 10: Reduce inequality within and among countries, from: https://www.un.org/
sustainabledevelopment/inequality/
51 Deloitte (2017) The 2017 Deloitte Millennial Survey, from: https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/
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52 Rijksoverheid (2018) 2.1 Arbeidsmarkt en social zekerheid, from: https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/regering/ regeerakkoord-vertrouwen-
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53 World Economic Forum (2016) 3 Reasons why multinationals should invest in LGBT leaders, from: https://www.
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54 McKinsey (2015) Why diversity matters, from: https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/organization/our- insights/why-
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55 Harvard Business Review (2017) Everyone likes fex time, but we punish women who use it: https://hbr. org/2017/02/everyone-
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56 Forbes (2014) How internet access can boost the economt and social equality, from: https://www.forbes.com/sites/
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57 Bloomberg (2017) Why smog chokes India’s capital, and its economy, from: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/ articles/2017-11-
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58 World Health Organization (2018) The rise of modern cities, from: http://www.who.int/kobe_centre/publications/
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60 U.S. Green Building Council (2016) Benefts of green building, from: https://www.usgbc.org/articles/green-building- facts
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63 Well Certifed (2017) Home, from: https://www.wellcertifed.com/

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Notes

64 Boss Controls (2018) How buildings impact the environment, from: https://bosscontrols.com/buildings-impact- environment/
65 Topsector Energie (2017) Green Deal Smart Energy Cities levert wijnaanpak op, from: https://topsectorenergie.nl/ nieuws/green-deal-
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66 Human Cities Coalition (2018) Homepage, from: https://www.humancities.co/
67 United Nations (2017) COP23: Philips Lighting director on how LED saves energy, from: https://www.un.org/
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70 Deloitte (2017) Think big, start small, connect now, from: https://www2.deloitte.com/nl/nl/pages/consumer- industrial-
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72 NRC (2017) Dit zijn de klimaatregelen van Rutte III op een rij, from: https://www.nrc.nl/nieuws/2017/10/10/dit-zijn- de-
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76 SDGs in action (2017) Homepage, from: https://sdgsinaction.com
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78 Environmental Science & Technology (2017) Brenmicroplastics, from: https://brenmicroplastics.weebly.com/ project-fndings.html
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84 Kennisinstituut Duurzaam Verpakken (2018) Wet –en regelgeving en EU-richtlijnen, from: https://www.kidv.nl/3403/ wet-en-regelgeving-
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86 Auping (2018) Duurzaamheid, from: https://www.auping.com/nl/ons-verhaal/duurzaamheid
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96 Unilever (2018) Transforming the palm oil industry, from: https://www.unilever.com/sustainable-living/reducing- environmental-
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101 OECD Global (2018) Planet Integrity: Building a Fairer Society, from: http://www.oecd.org/corruption/integrity- forum/
102 European Commission (2017) Refection paper on harnessing globalization, from: https://ec.europa.eu/ commission/sites/beta-
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104 European Parliament (2017) The Impact of Schemes revealed by the Panama Papers on the Economy and Finances of a Sample of
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105 Human Rights Watch (2017) More Brands Should Reveal Where Their Clothes are Made, from: https://www.hrw.
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106 Deloitte (2018) State of the State, from: https://www2.deloitte.com/nl/nl/pages/data-analytics/topics/state-of-the- state.html
107 EUR-Lex (2016) Document 32016R0679, from: http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/ TXT/?
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109 The Business and Sustainable Development Commission (2018) Homepage, from: http://report. businesscommission.org/
110 Unilever (2016) Why the SDGs are the greatest growth opportunity in a generation, from: https://www.unilever. com/news/news-
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111 United Nations (2013) Responsible business advancing peace, from: https://www.unglobalcompact.org/docs/
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112 Deloitte (2018) Using public-private partnerships to advance smart cities, from: https://www2.deloitte.com/
content/dam/Deloitte/us/Documents/public-sector/us-fed-using-public-private-partnerships-to-advance-smart- cities-funding-and-
fnance.pdf
113 The GEF Small Grants Programme (2018) Barefoot College, from: https://www.sgp.undp.org/index. php?
option=com_content&view=article&id=105&Itemid=274#.WtZJ9IVOKUk

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Sustainable Development Goals | Contact

Contact

Anne Huibrechtse-Truijens
Sustainability Lead
[email protected]

Authors
Linda van den Breul Jennifer Muller
Consulting | Technology [email protected] Risk Advisory | Sustainability JeMuller@deloitte.

Robbin-Jan Haar Jacqueline Olivier

Consulting | Strategy & Operations [email protected] Deloitte Impact Foundation [email protected]

Jasmijn Korver Helen Sonneveld

Consulting | Technology [email protected] Consulting | Strategy & Operations [email protected]

Erica Kostense-Smit Michiel van der Valk

Risk Advisory | Sustainability [email protected] Risk Advisory | Sustainability [email protected]

www.deloitte.nl/sdg
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Sustainable Development Goals | Contact

47
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