Watch & Jewellery Initiative 2030 (WJI 2030): objectives, membership, and 2026 requirements

Launched by Cartier (mandated by Richemont) and Kering, in partnership with the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), the Watch & Jewellery Initiative 2030 brings together the watch and jewellery sectors around three key priorities: strengthening climate resilience, preserving resources, and promoting inclusion. The initiative is open to all brands with a national or international presence and aims for measurable transformation across the value chain.

Why 2026 matters

The sector is facing heightened requirements for due diligence on human rights and environmental issues, as well as strong expectations for transparency. In the European Union, the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CS3D) sets the framework for companies operating in the European market. Within this context, WJI 2030 proposes a shared industry roadmap aligned with leading international standards (SBTi, UNGPs, ILO).

The 3 strategic pillars

Pillar 1 — Strengthening climate resilience

Alignment with science-based climate targets (SBTi) and 1.5 °C trajectories.
Decarbonisation of scopes 1, 2 and 3, transition planning, and enhanced data traceability.
Acceleration of renewable energy use and energy efficiency across operations.

Pillar 2 — Preserving resources

A “nature” roadmap (biodiversity, water) proportionate to the company’s ambition and sourcing footprint.
Product innovation and material circularity (reuse, repair, second life, end of life).
Sourcing standards focused on ecosystem protection and site restoration.

Pillar 3 — Promoting inclusion

A public human rights policy and due diligence framework aligned with the UN Guiding Principles (UNGPs) and OECD guidelines.
Commitment to the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) and promotion of decent working conditions.
Supplier capacity building (relevant certifications, assessment tools, progress plans).

Minimum membership requirements (updated framework)

Climate (SBTi)

Large enterprises: submit SBTi commitment letter within 12 months of joining; validated targets within 36 months (recommended: 24 months).
SMEs: within 24 months, define GHG baseline and reduction levers and publish a transition plan; within 36 months, register under SBTi SME and provide a detailed roadmap.

Resources (Nature)

All companies: define a nature roadmap (biodiversity/water) within 12 months.

Inclusion (Human rights & decent work)

Within 12 months, publish a human rights policy, implement UNGPs/OECD-aligned due diligence, and release a statement on working conditions aligned with the 8 ILO core conventions.
Sign the WEPs within 12 months and publish an implementation plan.

Governance and partnerships

WJI 2030 operates through a multi-stakeholder governance model (brands, suppliers, independent experts) and relies on key partnerships: Responsible Jewellery Council (standards and certification), Science Based Targets initiative, UN Global Compact, and UN/OECD due diligence frameworks. The goal is sector-wide accountability through baseline commitments, shared tools, and transparent progress reports.

FAQ — Watch & Jewellery Initiative 2030

Who leads the initiative?

WJI 2030 was launched by Cartier (Richemont) and Kering, in partnership with the RJC, and operates under a board bringing together brands, suppliers, and independent experts.

Who can join?

Any watch or jewellery brand with a national or international presence that is ready to meet the minimum requirements across the three pillars (climate, resources, inclusion).

What evidence of progress is expected?

SBTi commitment and targets within set deadlines, a nature roadmap, a public human rights policy and du