Japan Markets ViewESG A to Z Vol. 12
KIRIN HD(2)

Feb 13, 2024

Topic

Introduction of Kirin Holdings’ (Ticker: 2503) environmental initiatives and how they share values across the group

Interview Summary

In the Kirin Group Environmental Vision 2050, which was announced in 2020, the Kirin Group identified four priority issues: Biological Resources, Water Resources, Containers & Packaging, and Climate Change. Kirin’s uniqueness lies in approaching these four issues comprehensively, rather than separately. Could you elaborate on this?: The Kirin Group practices environmental management based on the brewing philosophy of “Reverence for Life.” This philosophy is based on the idea of respecting biological resources, such as yeast, used in brewing beer. We use water and biological resources to manufacture products, sell them in containers and packaging, and emit GHG in the process. Therefore, these four issues interact with each other.
How do you share the Kirin Group’s values globally, and what do you consider important when communicating with local people?: We share our values by distributing in-house newsletters via the intranet in Japan and PDFs overseas. With the increasing diversity of ideas at home and abroad, it is important to acknowledge and respect others.
What initiatives are you undertaking as part of “Community Engagement” within your Purpose?: We are working on the themes of respect for human rights, sustainable development of local communities, creation of trust, and enhancing the sustainable food economy. For example, we are involved in the initiatives to support farmers in Sri Lanka and to promote craft beers in various regions, thereby contributing to the development of local communities.
The Kirin Group’s corporate slogan, “Joy brings us together,” captures the group’s direction for the future. Please share with us the Kirin Group’s vision for the future.: We aim to create a world filled with delightful smiles by showing our uniqueness in the “Food & Beverages” and “Health and Well-Being” areas. The sacred beast featured in Kirin’s logo is said to be compassionate and considerate and to bring happiness. We hope that many people will care for the earth and other living creatures on the earth, envisioning such a world where “Joy brings us together.”