Targets and reduction measures
Book your free strategy consultation nowDecarbonisation pathway and CO2 reduction
A decarbonisation pathway is the process by which a company continuously reduces its greenhouse gas emissions. The main goal is to reduce emissions to the extent required to achieve international climate targets such as the Paris Agreement's 1.5-degree target. This pathway defines the level of reductions and the timeframe in which they will be implemented (net zero by 2050).
The Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) supports companies in developing scientifically based climate targets. These are based on current climate models and ensure that CO2 emission reductions are in line with the requirements of the Paris Agreement.
CO2 reduction measures are a priority
Firstly, companies should pursue measures to reduce CO2 emissions from activities under their direct control. For example, this could involve purchasing renewable energy or the substitution of fossil company cars with EVs. In addition, solutions need to be found within the value chain wherever possible, including for consumers and other supply chain partners.
Measures relating to Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions
Possible measures for achieving the reduction path may include:
- Increasing energy efficiency by implementing an energy management system
- Transition to renewable energy
- Own production of low-carbon renewable energies (e.g. heat from biomass waste, district heating, own PV system)
- Optimisation of energy use in building
- Low-carbon cooling, heating and coolants
- Switch to EV fleet
Possible measures concerning Scope 3 and other emissions
- Waste prevention and reduction of raw material consumption
- Fixed proportion of remote working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from commuting
- Use of online meetings to avoid unnecessary travel
- Selection of service providers and suppliers with net zero targets
- Promoting lower-emission modes of transport for business travel (e.g. rail instead of air travel)
- Promotion and support of the circular economy
- Ecodesign approaches for products
- Prioritising suppliers based on their climate strategy and transparency
- Cooperation with other organisations to strengthen purchasing conditions
- Collaborating with suppliers and customers to achieve net zero together (knowledge sharing, optimising transport routes, etc.
- Requirement for suppliers to commit to net zero targets
