When it comes to sustainability, The Co-operative has a strong history of social responsibility.
And despite today’s economically challenging times this policy remains true to the way we run our businesses. As a result we have consistently demonstrated how this principled approach to business can deliver outstanding results.
Not only has The Co-operative steadfastly stood by our Values and Principles, we have consistently raised the bar for socially and environmentally responsible business. We’ve also launched innovative ethical strategies, customer campaigns and a Community Plan.
Here is how Travel, Pharmacy and Bank are making a real sustainable difference.
It's the only way to go
We all enjoy taking a holiday but we’re aware that tourism comes at a cost to both the environment and the local community.
In July 2008, The Co-operative Travel (opens in new window) became the first UK travel agent to launch a strategy to support sustainable tourism. We were the only travel agent to oppose the development of a third runway at Heathrow and we oppose the development of runways throughout the UK unless there is a clear sustainability case.
The Co-operative has a strong history of social responsibility
We also understand that air travel comes at a cost to the environment, which is why we work with Climate Care to give you the opportunity to offset the carbon emissions that your holiday flight produces, and it’s free to members.
You’ll earn membership points too, so pop into your local branch, call 0845 266 9290 or go online to find out more about becoming a member.
Community Care
This year, The Co-operative Pharmacy (link opens in new window) developed an ethical strategy to support communities both in the UK and overseas.
With nearly 800 branches in the UK, The Co-operative Pharmacy believes a local pharmacy should be at the heart of the community, offering health advice and social support along with medicines. We’re also promoting community health with international charities, combining our strengths to bring a wider range of expertise.
In the UK, we can adapt our health advice to the needs of a local community. For example, in areas with a large Muslim community, we offer a free medicine check for those fasting over Ramadan, as fasting can affect medication. Our local health support includes involvement with the Sunwise initiative for the homeless.
In many developing countries, poor sanitation kills millions of people, especially children. In partnership with UNICEF, we are funding £300,000 of toilet and handwashing facilities in Togo.
Sustainable Bank Award
The Co-operative Financial Services (CFS) (link opens in new window) has won the prestigious FT Sustainable Bank of the Year award, a global award recognising leadership and innovation in social and environmental banking. CFS was praised for its unwavering commitment to sustainability, which has seen it maintain strong profitability, growth and ethical leadership.
Do the right thing too?
Download your own copy of our sustainability report or call 0161 827 6414.
We have a long history of campaigning, on issues ranging from climate change to human rights, and these initiatives have benefited millions of people in countries across the developing world. Join the Revolution today to find out more and support one of our initiatives.
This article featured in our Your Membership magazine.