Singapore, March 4, 2025 – The World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) announces that Kao Corporation, a global leader in chemical and cosmetics headquartered in Japan, has joined as its newest member.
Kao Corporation, led by President and CEO Yoshihiro Hasebe, is a leading Japanese multinational company specializing in chemicals and consumer goods, including cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and household products. Through this global partnership, Kao reinforces their commitment to sustainability and aims to collaborate with diverse stakeholders to drive the establishment of global standards that support the creation of a sustainable society.
To fulfil our corporate purpose of realizing a “Kirei” (Beautiful, Clean) World in which all life lives in harmony, we are driven by essential research and innovation. We have taken on the challenge of addressing social issues at every product stage, from raw material procurement to development, manufacturing, sales, use, disposal, and recycling. In this aspect, we are glad to join WBCSD to further global protocols, reporting standards and collaborate with more organizations to create a more sustainable future.
– Motomitsu Hasumi, Senior Executive Officer, Product Quality Management, Kao Corporation
In April 2019, Kao launched its ESG strategy “Kirei Lifestyle Plan” to support growing consumer demand for a sustainable lifestyle. Since 2021, Kao’s Mid-term Plan has promoted the vision of “protecting future lives” and “sustainability as the only path.” By joining WBCSD, Kao Corporation will contribute to advancing global standards for assessing and addressing sustainability risks and opportunities at the product cluster level – based on these principles.
In the chemicals sector, which plays a vital role in supporting modern prosperity, Kao remains committed to promoting the safer use of chemicals. Through responsible management practices, the company seeks to mitigate risks and drive progress towards a more sustainable society.
Commenting on Kao Corporation joining the organization said, We are thrilled to welcome Kao Corporation to the WBCSD. Kao’s commitment to sustainability and their innovative “Yoki-Monozukuri” approach align perfectly with our mission to accelerate the system transformations needed for a net zero, nature-positive, and equitable future. We look forward to collaborating with Kao to drive positive change and create a sustainable world for all.
– Joe Phelan, Executive Director, Asia Pacific, WBCSD
