RS Group Sets Ambitious Net Zero Goals
RS Group plc, a global provider of industrial product and service solutions, has announced the validation of four of its imminent climate reduction targets by the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi).
The SBTi, a global organisation driving proactive climate action in the private sector, empowers companies to establish science-based emissions reduction objectives.
Demonstrating a staunch commitment to combat the climate crisis, RS is actively implementing measures to curtail emissions.
Initiatives range from ensuring its distribution centres utilise renewable electricity to minimising the transportation distance of its products, favouring road or sea deliveries over air transport.
The company is also collaborating with suppliers to offer energy-efficient products and reduce the carbon footprint through its innovative Better World product range.
With an ambitious aim to achieve net-zero emissions in its direct operations by 2030 and across its value chain by 2050, RS Group is rallying its entire ecosystem, comprising 1.1 million customers and 2,500+ suppliers, to devise scalable solutions for tangible emissions reductions.
The company has established four science-based targets spanning critical emissions areas—operations, logistics, products, and suppliers. These targets, endorsed by the SBTi, guide RS Group's decarbonisation strategy, aligning to limit global warming to 1.5°C.
The validated near-term climate reduction targets include:
A 75% reduction in absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions
A 25% reduction in Scope 3 transport emissions per tonne of product sold
A 20% reduction in Scope 3 emissions from the use of RS PRO products per tonne of products sold
A commitment that 67% of suppliers (by spend) for purchased goods and services will establish science-based targets by 2024/2025
RS Group has made substantial progress towards these targets, achieving a 58% reduction in direct carbon emissions (Scope 1 and 2 emissions) since 2019/20. This accomplishment is attributed to the adoption of renewable electricity, energy management in distribution centres, and the integration of electric vehicles into the company's car fleet.
Andrea Barrett, VP of Social Responsibility and Sustainability at RS Group emphasised the significance of the SBTi validation, marking a pivotal milestone in the company's 2030 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) action plan, aptly named "For a Better World." The validation underscores RS Group's dedication to driving emissions reductions and progressing towards a net-zero future.
While acknowledging the challenges ahead, Barrett expressed confidence in the company's adept team and their commitment to achieving climate goals for RS, its customers, and suppliers.
The SBTi's classification of RS' Scope 1 and 2 target ambition as aligned with a 1.5°C trajectory signifies the company's commitment to the most ambitious temperature pathways.
A video and blog detailing this significant achievement are available on RS Group's website, along with comprehensive information on the company's progress toward its climate goals in its ESG reporting materials at rsgroup.com/esg.
To view and compare company ESG Ratings and Sustainability Reports, visit our Company ESG Profiles page.
Source: RS Group
