Axfoundation milestones Axfoundation innovates and accelerates practical solutions to concrete sustainability challenges across the globe and industries. Follow us on a journey throughout the years and explore some of the milestones in our history.
1992 The first UN Global Conference on Sustainable Development takes place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The same year Antonia’s journey toward sustainable development begins. She speaks about the “good company” and of the corporate world as the greatest potential changing force in society.
1982
1993
2006
As the 4th generation of entrepreneurs, Antonia Ax:son Johnson takes over the family company Axel Johnson AB, founded by her great-grandfather in 1873. In the photo: Antonia with Göran Ennerfelt, CEO Axel Johnson and husband.
Antonia and her mentor Curt Nicolin outline the framework for what is to become Axfoundation. Right before Antonia’s 50th birthday, the Antonia Ax:son Johnson Foundation for Sustainable Development is registered.
Alexandra Mörner, the 5th generation of entrepreneurs in the family, becomes Chairman. Axfoundation is turned into a “do tank” with a focus on developing practical solutions to concrete sustainability challenges.
1982
1990 ‘91 ‘92 ‘93 ‘94 ‘95 ‘96 ‘97 ‘98 ‘99 2000
“The general attitude among the bosses was that business executives should not get involved in these issues. The very thought was considered bizarre. Rather, these were the responsibilities of society and the authorities. No one understood that businesses are very much part of society.” Antonia Ax:son Johnson, Founder of Axfoundation.
Early 1990s
‘01
‘02
‘03
2008 and onwards
‘04
‘05
‘06
‘07
2013 and onwards
Fighting antibiotic resistance Toward sustainable fashion
Supporting research The initial ambition of the organization is to support scientific research on sustainable environmental development and its practical application. One of the first projects is a life cycle analysis of an apple’s journey to Sweden.
The sustainable fashion journey begins in 2008, and soon after Axfoundation and partners establish Fashion Talks, a seminar series on sustainability. In 2011, the Sustainable Fashion Academy is established to train brands in sustainability. In 2012, the first textile recycling program together with the private sector is launched. A decade later, Axfoundation is still working with the industry to explore circular solutions.
Axfoundation embarks on its journey to encourage the responsible use of antibiotics for foodproducing animals. In broad collaboration, Axfoundation develops the Antibiotic Criteria for food companies. By 2023, all Swedish food retailers and several food producers have implemented the criteria, and it is spreading internationally.