SBTi approves Churchill Group’s near-term science-based targets

The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has validated our science-based greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions near-term reduction targets. The SBTi’s target validation team has determined that our 1 and 2 scope emission targets align with the 1.5°C Business Ambition trajectory. We 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, we pledge to keeping the planet habitable for all.

Churchill Group’s commitments

We commit to reduce absolute scopes 1 and 2 GHG emissions 50.4% by the 2032 financial year, from a 2022 financial base year. We also commit that 95.3% of our 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, we are 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, we are 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, we will engage and provide support for suppliers across our chain, which represent more than two thirds of our entire footprint. This is to ensure that our own suppliers have science-based targets by 2027. We 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.”