Stakeholder engagement

Every other year starting in 2014, 3M has commissioned an independent research consultancy to help us better understand our stakeholders’ perspectives on key issues. Stakeholders include customers, employees, suppliers, nongovernmental organizations, corporate/private sector, academics, consultants, government, media, finance, trade associations, and think tanks, and they represent all of 3M’s business groups and all areas of operation.

The 2022 materiality assessment defined our current priority topics from two angles, called “double materiality.” It assessed how environmental and social issues impact 3M’s financial performance and value, as well as how 3M’s activities impact a broad range of stakeholders. The assessment also explored stakeholder perceptions of our sustainability strategy and its three pillars: Science for Circular, Science for Climate, and Science for Community.  

We analyzed the insights and inputs from stakeholders and developed our sustainability priorities. The table starting on page 16 of our 2024 Global Impact Report shows our priority topics and demonstrates how our sustainability goals align with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which includes 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

We’ll consider the sustainability priorities that emerge from our 2024 materiality assessment alongside our corporate vision and strategies to redefine our sustainability goals and path forward.