Lucas Urbano

How did sustainability get into your blood in the first place?

Growing up in Ribeirao Preto, Brazil - often referred to as the capital of Agribusiness - I witnessed first hand the environmental impact humans can have. In this agricultural town where sugarcane cultivation is prominent, farmers used to burn the leftover materials after the harvest. I distinctly remember the skies filled with debris from the fires. When the authorities banned this practice, it brought me immense joy, and a seed was planted within me. My grandfather and father also had small-holder plots where they grew and sold vegetables - this upbringing instilled in me a deep appreciation for the soil.

How did you pick procurement as a career?

I initially began my career in operations at a small factory in Brazil. While I had aspirations of transitioning into procurement, a unique opportunity arose to work in Sustainability for Danone in Paris. Given my keen interest in sustainability, my decision was clear. My career interests have since intertwined and merged.

What was your role in Paris and why was it so pivotal?

In Paris, I joined Danone during a fascinating period, coinciding with the 2015 Paris COP. My role revolved around positioning Danone's climate strategy on the global stage. It was during this time that I noticed a disconnect between Sustainability and Procurement Teams. Typically, the Sustainability Team formulates the sustainability strategy, while the Procurement Team possesses the authority and resources to implement it - but these two aspects don't always align. When sustainability is at the core of the procurement strategy, and suppliers are engaged closely, remarkable positive change can be achieved.

What is Unilever doing to deliver Net Zero?

Unilever has developed a comprehensive plan to reach Net Zero emissions by 2039. The Regenerative Agriculture project, which I lead, plays a vital role in Unilever's Net Zero strategy. By applying the principles of regenerative agriculture, we achieve benefits including soil health, improved water quality and quantity, enhanced biodiversity, and a reduction in the overall carbon emissions associated with ingredient production. Moreover, regenerative agriculture allows us to sequester and remove carbon from the atmosphere.

Which are the key sustainability skills procurement need to focus on?

Sometimes the procurement mindset can still be too narrow. To deliver operational delivery, we need to consider the whole system and end-to-end supply chains. We also need to understand what and who is needed to make the change - NGOs, Farmers, Government Bodies and so forth. We sometimes find the rationale to make positive change is clear but paradigms are so ingrained that people don't want to change. So we have to overcome this.

What will Procurement look like in 15 years time?

Procurement's scope will extend far beyond its current boundaries, and we will dedicate significant time addressing sustainability, access to food and energy, democracy, and artificial intelligence (AI).

Who are your sustainability heroes?

I had the privilege of meeting Muhammad Yunus, who won a Nobel Peace Prize for his work in spreading microcredit to help impoverished individuals start businesses. My second hero is Marina Silva, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change in Brazil. Despite facing immense pressure, she remains humble, resilient, and innovative in her role.

How do you like to relax outside work?

I typically spend time with my family outdoors, playing with my two daughters and our dog. I find relaxation in cycling through the mountains, with a desire to explore more Alpine cols. Fishing is another way I unwind - a recent trip to Argentina with my dad and brother was truly special.

Rapid Fire

Amazon Rainforest or Brazilian Beach?

I suggest exploring the unique ecosystem of the Atlantic Forest in Brazil, which combines forests and beaches | Magnum or Ben & Jerry's? Ben & Jerry's