Electrolux Group has become one of the first companies to meet its science-based climate target by demonstrating several sustainable accomplishments as part of it’s latest 2022 sustainability report.
The Swedish appliance manufacturer revealed it has reduced its absolute scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions (direct and indirect in operations) by 82% compared to 2015 – going beyond its 2025 target of 80%. Scope 3 emissions (which includes when products are in use) also decreased by over 25% compared to 2015, which is in line with the company’s 25% reduction target by 2025. This announcement confirms the company has reached its interim 2025 science-based target, three years ahead of plan.
“We were among the first 100 companies to set a global ambitious climate target – and now we are among the very first companies to meet it.” said Jonas Samuelson, Electrolux Group CEO. “As a leader in sustainability, we have a responsibility to show what is possible and this result does just that.”
Electrolux Group was amongst the first 100 companies to set its global science-based climate target in 2018, with the likes of Coca-Cola, Sony and Carlsberg Group. However, it is the first company to actually meet those targets.
“By setting a bold science-based target companies show their commitment to do their part in keeping global warming below 1.5 °C in line with the Paris Climate Agreement.” added Maxfield Weiss, executive director CDP Europe, partner within The Science Based Targets initiative. “Achieving its first ambitious science-based target, Electrolux Group is a great example of an organisation working to make our economy fit for people and planet,”
It is estimated that approximately 85% of total CO2 emissions in the life cycle of such products are generated during usage. Sustainable Future News recently spoke with Sarah Schaefer, VP Sustainability Europe at Electrolux, to discuss the company’s efforts towards reducing this impact by actively taking steps to guide consumer habits beyond the point of purchase.
More from Electrolux Group
In their 2022 Sustainability Report, the manufacturer also showcased several noteworthy accomplishments. Among them were:
- Utilising renewable energy sources to power 98% of their global operations.
- Engaging with 124,000 individuals through the Electrolux Food Foundation since 2016, educating them on sustainable eating practices.
- Achieving notable sales figures for their most energy and water efficient products, which accounted for 24% of total units sold and 39% of gross profit.
- Incorporating 70% recycled plastic into the inner liners of their new built-in refrigerators.
- Recycling or recovering almost 98% of their manufacturing waste, contributing to a circular economy and reducing their environmental impact.
What is the Science-Based Targets initiative?
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is a partnership between CDP (formerly the Carbon Disclosure Project), the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), the World Resources Institute (WRI), and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). The SBTi is a collaborative initiative aimed at helping companies set greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets that are in line with the latest climate science via it’s Net Zero Standard.
The initiative provides companies with a framework for setting science-based targets (SBTs) that are consistent with the goals of the Paris Agreement. The SBTi provides technical support and resources to companies to help them set these targets, and then verifies whether the targets are aligned with the latest climate science.
The SBTi is also developing the first global standard for net-zero targets in the financial sector.
