Garment label manufacturer Avery Dennison announced that its emissions reduction targets have been approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) as being commensurate with levels required to satisfy the Paris Agreement's goals.

The company's greenhouse gas emissions objectives (scopes 1 and 2) are in line with the reductions needed to keep global warming below 1.5°C, the most aggressive goal of the Paris Agreement, and what the latest climate science has taught us is required to avoid the most catastrophic effects of climate change. Meanwhile, the company's emissions aim (scope 3) fits the SBTi's criteria for aggressive value chain targets, indicating that it too is aligned with current best practices.

This announcement comes as the firm raises the bar on its sustainability goals, having revealed earlier this year that it is stepping up its efforts by setting aggressive 2030 goals. This included a commitment to reduce absolute scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 70% from the baseline year of 2015, as well as a commitment to reduce absolute scope 3 GHG emissions from acquired goods and services and end-of-life treatment of sold products by 30% by 2030 from the base year of 2018.

The specific 2030 goals are divided into three broad sustainability goals: Deliver innovations that advance the circular economy; Reduce the environmental impact of its operations and supply chain; and Improve the livelihoods of people and communities and make a positive social impact.

The company's long-term goal is to be carbon-neutral by 2050. Gender diversity, employee engagement and inclusion, safety, and other goals are included in the 2030 goals.

Michael Colarossi, VP, product line management, innovation and sustainability, RBIS, Avery Dennison and lead for ESG initiatives for the company, said that when it comes to setting sustainability targets, they need a benchmark to guarantee that everyone is working toward a common goal. They are confident that they are establishing ambitious scopes 1, 2, and 3 GHG emission reduction targets as they collaborate with other global industry leaders to move the needle toward a future of net-zero emissions, thanks to the SBTi's acknowledgment.