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Select SDGs to find out how we are taking action in support of the UN Substinable Development Goals
In 2009 scientists identified nine ‘Planetary Boundaries’ in which humanity can safely live on the planet. This methodology was later updated in 2015. It aims to define the environmental limits in which humanity can safely operate and thrive. The scientifically based framework identifies the safe operating space of humanity on Earth. The nine Planetary Boundaries are: Stratospheric ozone depletion; Loss of biosphere integrity (biodiversity loss and extinctions); Chemical pollution and the release of novel entities; Climate change; Ocean acidification; Freshwater consumption and the global hydrological cycle; Land system change; Nitrogen and phosphorus flows to the biosphere and oceans; and Atmospheric aerosol loading. Unfortunately, mankind is currently exceeding several of those boundaries.
ICL, as a global company with a range of activities that cover all stages of product life cycle, from the production of raw materials through their final use in end markets, considers, develops and maintains within its project plans and designs, the requirement for environmental protection at all stages, i.e. “Product Stewardship”. ICL’s activities relate to some of the planetary boundaries. With respect to climate change, ICL has set a goal to decrease its GHG emissions and increase renewable energy usage. ICL’s main products are fertilizers, mainly phosphate and potash-based fertilizers. Correct use of ICL’s products can prevent leaching of excess nitrogen and enable the continued use of farmland, which, in turn, decreases land-system change. ICL trains farmers regarding the balanced use of fertilizers. Feeding a growing population will be very challenging without transgressing the planetary boundaries. Global agriculture pressures the planetary boundaries, posing a challenge of achieving future food security without compromising Earth system resilience. As part of the solution, ICL is focusing its efforts on development and production of protein alternatives. Regarding stratospheric ozone depletion, as producers of methyl bromide (a substance that is listed in international agreements as a contributor to ozone depletion), ICL carefully tracks this product and has decreased its production.
