SWM International announces SBTi decarbonization commitment

SWM International has just announced a commitment to reduce our carbon footprint in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement. This has been formally submitted to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and marks an important step in our company’s journey to reduce the environmental impact of our operations.

Toward a decarbonized future
The SBTi is a leading independent assessment body dedicated to helping companies chart an evidence-based path to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. SWM International’s commitment represents the first stage in the target-setting process and lays the foundation for a decarbonized future. The next step is to develop a net-zero transition plan and get it independently validated by the SBTi.

Marc Bettoli, ESG Program Manager, is excited about the opportunities that this commitment will bring. “The SBTi is the industry standard for corporate climate targets, and everyone is excited about our efforts to decarbonize both our own operations and our value chain,” he says. “Far from being a simple ‘rubber stamp’, our targets will be the basis for coordinated and ambitious efforts across the company.”

Tackling emissions from A–Z
Corporate GHG emissions are divided into three “Scopes” according to their source: Scopes 1 and 2 refer to emissions caused directly by a company’s operations, such as its factories. Meanwhile, Scope 3 refers to all emissions associated with “upstream” activities, such as the sourcing of raw materials, and “downstream” activities, such as the end-of-life treatment of products. SBTi targets take all of these Scopes into account.

This comprehensive approach requires a high degree of cooperation, both internally and with external partners. “In addition to being a catalyst for change within the company, setting an SBTi target is a great way to inspire our value-chain partners to address their climate impacts,” continues Marc. “Both customers and suppliers are pushing for progress on this issue, and we look forward to making a positive difference together.”

Progress through collaboration
The process of developing SWM International’s SBTi journey is well underway, led by a dedicated task force. Bringing together expertise from across the business, including the operations, purchasing, and supply chain functions, the team is working hard to develop a route to net zero emissions. The goal is to achieve this by 2050, with an interim target to be set for 2030. The key is to identify the right strategic “levers”.

“Whether it’s using renewable energy at our sites or engaging our suppliers in discussions about their decarbonization strategies, we’re exploring all options,” explains Marc. “This is likely to require capital investment, but as a newly independent company, we now have the strategic flexibility to pursue our ambitious goals. And judging by the conversations we’ve already had with suppliers, that ambition is shared.”

A culture of sustainable innovation
SWM International’s SBTi commitment is the latest stage in our sustainability journey. For example, as part of our Thinpact program, a project is already underway to reduce energy consumption across our sites by 15% by 2026 compared to 2021 levels. This will be achieved by optimizing processes and increasing energy efficiency. “It’s been inspiring to see the enthusiasm the team brings to the SBTi project,” concludes Marc. “We’re all looking forward to putting our plans into action!”

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Stay tuned for more updates on our progress soon!