Working on Environmental Solutions at 3M

Continuing to improve the environmental performance remains a key component of 3M's 2015 Sustainability Goals.

Environmental Stewardship
- Reduce volatile air emissions 15% by 2015 from 2010 base year (indexed to net sales)
- Reduce waste 10% by 2015 from 2010 base year, indexed to net sales (total emission divided by net sales)
- Improve energy efficiency 25% by 2015 from 2005 base year, indexed to net sales
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions 5% by 2011 from 2006 base year, indexed to net sales (this goal was set in 2007)
- Develop water conservation plans in 3M locations where water is categorized as scarce or in a stressed area.

Social Responsibility
- Develop community stakeholder engagement plans at 3M facilities
- Promote a road to Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) Excellence at new 3M Sites

3M’s 2015 Sustainability Goals build upon the company’s record of environmental achievements, which include reducing volatile air emissions 95% since 1990 and cutting greenhouse gases by 72% (since 1990). 3M has also reduced solid waste indexed to sales by 66% from a 1990 base year. 3M’s achievements have helped build its reputation as a global sustainability leader. The company ranked #2 on the 2011 Best Global Green Brands List produced by brand consultancy Interbrand, and a separate study by Brand Logic found that investment professionals, purchasing/supply management professionals and graduating students from the US, China, Japan, Germany, UK and India also perceive the company as a leader in the field.