UN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (“SDGs” or the “Global Goals”) were created by the United Nations in 2015 to help advance sustainable development practices across the world. SMI is a strong advocate in supporting the global community to reach these aspirational goals. SMI’s sustainability practices are aligned with and in support of the SDGs.

SMI’s Contribution to the UN SDGs

Recycling glass provides a workforce that extends the life of glass and critically supports the entire value chain. SMI has an environment where this workforce is provided with safe, humane, working conditions – providing decent work and economic growth.

Glass pushes industries forward - from serving as a container for life-saving medications to creating the most resilient buildings, glass has been the driving force behind these innovations. SMI supports this goal by providing cullet to customers who responsibly manufacture new products. Example: The Baltimore Aquarium project on page 30.

Industries that consume recycle glass are participating in responsible consumption because glass can be recycled endlessly, and does not pose a health risk to employees, consumers, or wildl ife. Recycled glass also provides an opportunity for responsible prod uction compared to virgin glass. Manufacturers who use recycled glass reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, since less energy is used in melting the glass. SMI contributes by providing material to markets for m ore responsible and sustainable manufacturing.

Climate change is the code red warning for humanity, as described by the United Nations. However, glass is shattering how we think about it. Glass is creating processes that are more environmentally-friendly, products that can have an infinite life cycle, and reducing consumption and waste. SMI’s cullet is taking climate action in fiberglass insulation market by creating a product that reduces consumer energy consumption, and similarly in the container market by creating a more sustainable process and reusable product for customers. SMI employees are also taking climate action by attending conferences, events, and producing media that engage the public and policymakers. Read more about how SMI is engaging in climate action on page 38.

Glass is inert. Glass will not leach into the product it’s holding an d will not leach into waterways, should it end up in streams. Unlike a m aterial like plastic, wildlife will not ingest glass. Over time, glass will degr ade back to sand. Glass is a great alternative to other materials for the se reasons and SMI works to educate and motivate others to choose glass to help protect the environment.

Glass recycling brings communities together and gives ownership of an individual’s impact on climate action - some even go beyond and can be used as a source of education and highlight the beauty within the community. Example: Ripple Glass art bins on page 34, and the Gastonia, NC, art installation on page 36.

Glass brings people together, through art, design, and history. Glas s is a part of each person’s everyday life. SMI creates meaningful, sustain able partnerships with customers, suppliers, employees, and the public to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.