DS Smith has made a commitment to align its 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).
DS Smith North America will participate in the acceleration of the reduction of carbon emissions for its operations, as well as those of its partners and suppliers, by committing to reducing its Scope 1, 2 and 3 Green House Gas (GHG) emissions by 46 percent on an absolute basis by 2030, compared to 2019 levels. These targets will keep DS Smith, which is a member of the UN's Race to Zero initiative, in line with its prior commitment to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
"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," said Miles Roberts, Group Chief Executive at DS Smith. "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."
To deliver on this commitment, DS Smith will invest consistently over the next 28 years in its own operations. Investment will be made into the adoption of next-generation engineering solutions, such as biomethane boiler technology. The company will also harness self-generated renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, and power purchasing agreements to replace grid electricity.
DS Smith will also engage with all its 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, DS Smith will work closely with partners, suppliers, customers and policymakers to collectively tackle climate change through the circular economy in line with DS Smith's ambitious goals.
