Today we announce our ambitious commitment to align our global operations to a 1.5°C scenario as set out in the Paris Climate Agreement. The roadmap to 1.5°C has been submitted for verification by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)*.
To achieve this, we are accelerating the reduction of carbon emissions for our own operations, as well as those of our partners and suppliers, by committing to reducing our Scope 1, 2 and 3 Green House Gas (GHG) emissions by 46% on an absolute basis by 2030, compared to 2019 levels. These targets will keep us, a member of the UN’s Race to Zero initiative, in line with our prior commitment to reach Net Zero** carbon emissions by 2050.
“Today’s announcement demonstrates our ambition in reducing carbon as part of our long-term sustainability focus. This commitment not only ensures our business is leading the way in reducing our carbon footprint, but also guarantees we are challenging our suppliers and partners to do the same. Our business has ambitious growth plans over the coming years as we lead the transition to a circular economy and these commitments are a crucial part of our Now and Next sustainability strategy which will see us create a positive impact for people and the planet both now and in the future.” — Miles Roberts, Group Chief Executive at DS Smith
Investing in the future
To deliver on this commitment, we will invest consistently over the next 28 years in our own operations. Investment will be made into the adoption of next generation engineering solutions, such as biomethane boiler technology. We will also harness self-generated renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, and power purchasing agreements to replace grid electricity.
Working with our partners
We will also engage with all our strategic suppliers to encourage them to adopt science-based targets by 2027. This follows feedback from stakeholders, who are seeking to work with like-minded businesses committed to Science Based Targets and Net Zero, alongside a commitment to the circular economy. As part of this approach, we will work closely with partners, suppliers, customers and policymakers to collectively tackle climate change through the circular economy in line with our ambitious goals.
Committing to Net Zero
Supporting the delivery of these commitments is an ambitious Net Zero transition plan which will set out the key strategic actions and milestones that will define our transition to Net Zero. The plan, which will be published this summer, is aligned with our growth strategy and outlines the initiatives that will be undertaken, prioritising the greatest sources of GHG emissions***.
more at source: https://www.dssmith.com/packaging/about/media/news-press-releases/2022/1/ds-smith-accelerates-carbon-reduction-plans-with-1.5c-temperature-alignment-commitment