Three Guatemalan Companies Committed to Sustainability

Corporate sustainability has become a cornerstone of Guatemala’s economic and environmental development. Several companies have embraced innovative practices to reduce their environmental impact, drive social progress, promote the responsible use of resources, and encourage the responsible use of resources. These initiatives are not only transforming industries, but also are contributing to the nation’s well-being.

Here’s a look at three companies leading the way in sustainability, highlighting their commitment to the environment and society.

Agencias J.I. Cohen: Pioneers in Green Logistics

Agencias J.I. Cohen, founded by Jack Irving Cohen and currently headed by Alberto Cohen, is a Guatemalan company with over 70 years of experience in the distribution of pharmaceuticals, beauty products and nutritional supplements. The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of its business model, from green logistics to ethical and socially responsible business practices.

One of J.I. Cohen’s outstanding sustainability efforts is its use of 100% electric delivery vehicles, which significantly reduces its carbon footprint when transporting goods. This green logistics approach allows the company to actively contribute to environmental conservation and promote a cleaner economy in Guatemala. Additionally, each delivery vehicle is equipped with temperature monitoring systems and GPS, to ensure the safe and optimal delivery of products nationwide. This technology enhances route efficiency, improves energy use, and reduces resource consumption.

J.I. Cohen’s sustainability efforts extend beyond environmental initiatives. The company integrates social responsibility and ethics into its corporate philosophy. Its mission and vision statements emphasize “creating sustainable value” and “being an innovative and socially responsible company,” reflecting its genuine commitment to the well-being of its stakeholders.

Progreso: Environmental Leadership in the Construction Industry

Progreso, a leader in Guatemala’s construction industry, has implemented a comprehensive sustainability strategy that emphasizes environmental and social responsibility. On the environmental front, Progreso prioritizes the reuse of waste, achieving an 87% recycling or recovery rate. The company has also planted more than 30 million trees through its reforestation program, helping to reduce its carbon footprint and preserve local ecosystem.

Socially, Progreso focuses on improving the living standards of the community through projects such as Pisos S3, which replaces dirt floors with cement ones in hundreds of homes, and AgroProgreso, which helps local flower growers export their products.

This holistic approach has earned Progreso accolades such as the “World’s Most Ethical Companies” award and the Environmental Seal from Guatemala’s Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources. These recognitions solidify its position as a leader in sustainability in the construction sector.

CMI, Corporación Multi Inversiones: Circular Economy and Community Support

CMI, Corporación Multi Inversiones (CMI), has developed a sustainability strategy focused on circular economy practices and social impact. From an environmental, the company has prevented the emission of over 366,000 tons of CO2 in the region and repurposed large amounts of waste oil and lard into biodiesel, reducing its operational impact. Several of CMI’s operations have achieved carbon neutral certification, underscoring the company’s commitment to minimizing its environmental footprint.

On the social front, CMI promotes community development through its Juan Bautista Gutiérrez Foundation, which supports nutrition, education, and entrepreneurship programs. Additionally, it has launched CMI Ventures, a startup investment platform that fosters regional innovation. These initiatives strengthen CMI’s positive societal impact and solidify its reputation as one of the most responsible companies in Guatemala.

Shaping a Sustainable Future

The sustainability practices of Agencias J.I. Cohen, Progreso, and CMI exemplify the corporate’s commitment to building a more sustainable economy in Guatemala. Under Alberto Cohen’s leadership, J.I. Cohen has implemented green logistics, significantly reducing its environmental impact. Progreso has focused on responsible waste management and supporting vulnerable communities, while CMI has embraced circular economy principles and promoted entrepreneurship across the region. In addition to improving their market competitiveness, these companies are actively contributing to a more responsible and sustainable future for Guatemala.