IGI has joined the Watch & Jewellery Initiative 2030 (WJI 2030) as a partner member. Founded in 2021 by Kering and Cartier, WJI 2030 is guided by the Ten Principals of the United Nations Global Compact and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
In 2015 the 193 Member States of the United Nations adopted a 15-year plan for achieving a better future, laying a path to protect the planet and fight poverty, inequality, and injustice. WJI 2030 was established to further that vision within the watch and jewelry industry.
From WJI 2030 Executive Director Iris Van Der Venken:
Now is the time for bold leadership. We look forward to IGI driving positive impacts across our three strategic pillars: building climate resilience, preserving resources, and fostering inclusiveness. September will mark the halfway point of the 2030 agenda for sustainable development. This is a critical milestone and an important opportunity to step up and take stock of where we are and where we need to be. Now, more than ever, we must work together on our ambitions across the Watch & Jewellery Industry with credibility and accountability to ensure we make real meaningful change.
From IGI CEO Roland Lorie:
IGI’s locations around the world are delighted to join this initiative. We believe it’s important for all companies to recognize and address their potential impact on issues pertaining to the environment, and to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.
In 2021 IGI became the first gemological institute to commit to carbon neutrality. The institute launched a women’s empowerment program in India the same year, annually helping women from socially challenged backgrounds pursue successful careers in the gem and jewelry industry.
From IGI COO Deborah Pienica:
At IGI we endeavor to establish a culture that emphasizes a harmonious blend of performance, well-being, and social consciousness. By proactively contributing to the betterment of society, we hope to elevate the collective level of consciousness and positively impact our planet and its people.
WJI 2030 is co-chaired by Cartier CEO Cyrille Vigneron and Kering Chief Sustainability Officer Marie-Claire Daveu. The Ten Principles of the United Nations Global Compact are derived from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Labour Organization’s Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, and the United Nations Convention Against Corruption.
