The Watch and Jewellery Initiative 2030 invites watch and jewellery businesses "with a national and international footprint" to "begin a collective journey towards a low- carbon future" by committing to a range of objectives.
Iris Van der Veken, executive director of the RJC, explained, "Business can be a force for positive change and impact by supporting a global economy that protects people, the planet and the natural systems that sustain us. Business as usual is no longer an option."
Based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the initiative will focus on achieving "science-based climate targets, biodiversity protection and materials and business model innovation" to protect employees across the supply chain.
Cyrille Vigneron, president and CEO of Cartier, said, “As the watch and jewellery sector relies on the Earth’s precious resources and people’s know-how around the world within its value chains, the imperative to act together in creating a more positive impact has become ever clearer.
"We are thrilled to join efforts towards a more sustainable industry... and to invite other industry actors to join this initiative."
Jean-François Palus, group managing director of Kering , added, “We believe that luxury is inseparable from the highest environmental and social standards, and that it is our responsibility, as leading luxury players, to initiate the changes that are needed to protect our planet... Only collective action can make the difference to transform our industry for the better."
The initiative will produce regular reports and comply with government regulations.