The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has validated Churchill Group’s science-based greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions near-term reduction targets.
The SBTi’s target validation team has determined that Churchill Group’s 1 and 2 scope emission targets align with the 1.5°C Business Ambition trajectory. Churchill Group first formally committed to developing a science-based target aligned with the SBTi criteria in 2021.
The SBTi is a corporate climate action organisation that enables companies and financial institutions worldwide to play their part in combatting the climate crisis.
Tackling climate change requires ambitious action from the FM sector and having validated science-based targets demonstrates true commitment to building a sustainable economy. The 1.5°C Business Ambition refers to the limit needed for rising global temperatures. By committing to the 1.5°C Business Ambition, Churchill Group pledges to keeping the planet habitable for all.
Churchill Group’s commitments
Churchill Group commits to reduce absolute scopes 1 and 2 GHG emissions 50.4% by the 2032 financial year, from a 2022 financial base year. Churchill Group also commits that 95.3% of its suppliers by emissions covering purchased goods and services, capital goods and upstream transport and distribution, will have science-based targets by the 2027 financial year.
In terms of scope 1 reduction, Churchill Group is engaging in an electric vehicle transition project, transitioning approximately 1,000 fleet vehicles from an internal combustion engine to electric by 2032. In terms of scope 2 emissions, Churchill Group is also committed to turning all gas heated premises to electric heating, switching all building lighting to 100% LED bulbs, and will conduct five-yearly controls and efficiency reviews for appliance improvement and replacement.
In terms of scope 3 emission reduction, Churchill Group will engage and provide support for suppliers across its chain, which represent more than two thirds of its entire footprint. This is to ensure that its own suppliers have science-based targets by 2027. It will also enhance procurement policies that ensure GHG are considered in all purchasing decisions.
James Bradley, CEO at Churchill Group, said: “The science-based targets established by the SBTi are pivotal to our emission reduction work. We have a duty to support and educate our own supply chain, as well as the businesses that we are a supplier to. The SBTi is recognised as the global benchmark for reducing emissions and its expertise will ensure we can carefully track our objectives in the years ahead to make sure we hit our goals. This independent verification is crucial for us to demonstrate to our customers that we are serious about our emission reduction objectives.”
