Friday 14 January 2022

Packaging firm Smurfit Kappa receives approval for science-based emissions target

Smurfit Kappa Group, which provides sustainable, renewable and recyclable paper-based packaging solutions, has had its emissions reduction targets approved by the Science-based Targets initiative (SBTi).

They cover greenhouse gas emissions from the company's operations – i.e. Scope 1 and 2 emissions – and are consistent with the level required to meet the goals of the Paris climate agreement.

Smurfit Kappa is targeting a 55% reduction in emissions by 2030, compared to the 2005 baseline and aiming for net zero emissions by 2050.

One key project that is expected to support its goal is its Nettingsdorf Paper Mill in Austria, which began operating in June 2020.

The installation of a new boiler is set to cut carbon emissions by 40,000 tonnes, which is equivalent to a 1.5% reduction in emissions across the business.

Tony Smurfit, Group CEO said: “The SBTi validation builds on our well-established sustainability credentials and is an extremely positive development for Smurfit Kappa and all our stakeholders. The world must move to circular business activities with low carbon emissions. SBTi is further evidence of our ability to deliver on this goal and for our customers, through our increasingly sustainable operating footprint and packaging solutions.

“Sustainability is at the heart of all our operations and we have a long term commitment to protect the planet, its people and all our stakeholders.”