Diageo recognized as sustainability leader

Premium adult beverage maker Diageo received the Carbon Disclosure Project’s top distinction for its efforts in the area of climate change strategy, emissions disclosure and performance.

The Norwalk, Conn.-based maker of Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff, Crown Royal, Ketel One, Guinness, Jose Cuervo, Captain Morgan and Beaulieu Vineyard wines, said the recognition from the Carbon Disclosure　Project (CDP), recognizes the company’s strong global commitment to sustainability. That commitment was demonstrated most recently by a switch to all biomethane at its Gimli, Manitoba plant and award-winning sustainable design, construction and operation of its New York City offices.

CDP is an international organization that provides the only global system for companies and cities to measure and manage environmental information.

Diageo　was also awarded　membership on the　CDP’s　Carbon Performance Leadership Index. Companies included in the index are viewed as having　best practice in terms of governance, strategy and emissions reductions and strongly out-performing the rest of the CDP Global 500 population in all of the key metrics. Diageo was also awarded a place on the Carbon Disclosure Leadership Index, making it the only beverage company to　be listed　on both.

The Carbon Disclosure Leadership　index　highlights　the constituent companies within the　FTSE Global　Equity Index Series (Global　500)　which　have displayed　the strongest　approach　to　climate change　disclosure.　Achieving a high score　indicates good internal data management and understanding of climate change related issues affecting the company.

"Diageo is committed to building a sustainable business and we take our responsibility to the environment very seriously," said Guy Smith, EVP at Diageo. "We are proud　to have our efforts recognized by the CDP. This will serve to further reinforce our commitment to driving strong performance in all areas of sustainability, which is a key driver of our North American business."

CDP CEO Paul　Simpson said, "companies that make the　Carbon Disclosure Leadership Index　have demonstrated strong internal data management practices for　the measurement of greenhouse gas emissions　and energy use. They are also　giving clear consideration to the　business issues related to climate change and their exposure to climate-related risks and opportunities.　This is vital to realizing greater efficiencies,　protecting the business　from risk and capitalizing on opportunities."