Breitling’s 2023 Sustainability Mission Report showcases the proactive steps taken by the renowned luxury watchmaker to realize its environmental, social, and governance objectives. The report comprehensively outlines the brand’s sustainability roadmap, dubbed “#SQUADONAMISSION to do better,” which encompasses various initiatives, such as introducing traceable watch collections through the Origins Label, setting emission reduction targets in accordance with climate science and the Paris Agreement, and launching the inaugural Impact Diamond Fund with its associated goals and programs.
Notably, Breitling’s Sustainability Mission Report stands out as an industry leader by adhering to the World Economic Forum/International Business Council’s Stakeholder Capitalism Metrics. These metrics, developed in collaboration with 120 of the world’s largest companies during the 2020 World Economic Forum in Davos, have since been adopted by numerous multinational corporations.
Breitling is actively engaged in addressing sustainability, recognizing it as the paramount challenge and opportunity of our era. Sustainability is not just a project for the company; it is an ongoing journey aimed at amplifying its positive influence. The central focus is on crafting products and experiences that incorporate superior materials, improved manufacturing processes, and sustainable packaging practices. This third annual Sustainability Mission Report reaffirms Breitling’s commitment to transparently report on the outcomes related to its mission objectives.
The report’s foundation lies in Breitling’s annual stakeholder materiality assessment, conducted through online surveys and follow-up interviews. This year’s assessment and the resulting report align with the five pillars that structure Breitling’s sustainability efforts: Product, Planet, People, Prosperity, and Progress.
Georges Kern, CEO of Breitling, emphasizes the company’s dedication to immediate climate action and its awareness that lasting change is a gradual process. Breitling’s commitment extends to making a positive impact on the lives of the communities and families involved in its sourcing process, and clear plans are in place to work collaboratively with stakeholders in achieving these objectives.
Key highlights from the report include:
PRODUCT: THE ORIGINS LABEL Breitling introduces the Origins Label to identify watches with traceable materials, such as “better gold, better diamonds, and better traceability.” This pioneering effort includes the Navitimer 36 and 32 lines featuring gold and lab-grown diamonds with transparent sourcing information accessible through blockchain-backed NFTs and public-facing Sourcemap. Breitling collaborates with the Swiss Better Gold Association and adheres to rigorous sustainability standards for lab-grown diamonds, setting industry-leading transparency benchmarks in sourcing practices.
PLANET: CLIMATE ACTION Breitling diligently measures its environmental footprint, particularly greenhouse gas emissions, and collaborates with stakeholders across the supply chain to develop an ambitious carbon reduction plan. The company has submitted its target validation request to the Science Based Targets initiative, aligning with the Corporate Net-Zero Standard. Breitling is on track to significantly reduce its environmental impact by 2032 and 2050 through concentrated efforts aimed at absolute emissions reductions.
PEOPLE: STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT FOR SUSTAINABILITY People are at the core of Breitling’s sustainability efforts, with a strong focus on employee engagement and inclusive training programs. Initiatives like climate week and recognition such as the Universal Fair Pay Analyst award reflect the company’s commitment to enhancing engagement and inclusion.
PROSPERITY AND PROGRESS: STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS Breitling prioritizes social and environmental impact within its supply chains, working closely with local communities to support education, healthcare, water treatment, and environmental protection. The Impact Diamond Fund aims to empower women, promote social entrepreneurship, and regenerate the environment in diamond mining areas. Breitling collaborates with various partners, including the Amani Institute, Surfrider Foundation, SUGi, Qhubeka, and the Solar Impulse Foundation, to make a tangible impact on various sustainability fronts.
Aurelia Figueroa, Global Director of Sustainability at Breitling, underscores the importance of corporate sustainability in addressing global challenges. Breitling aims to be a catalyst for positive systemic change and emphasizes transparent communication on outcomes and collaborative efforts with stakeholders.
Breitling’s full Sustainability Mission Report 2023 can be found here.