3M Sets Ambitious Scope 3 Emissions Targets for 2030

3M, a global leader in industrial manufacturing, has reached a significant sustainability milestone by announcing its first Scope 3 emissions reduction target, validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The announcement marks a pivotal step towards more comprehensive emissions reduction strategies within the manufacturing sector.

Ambitious targets across the value chain

Aligning with the Paris Agreement's 1.5°C trajectory, 3M has set ambitious targets across its operations and supply chain. The company's goals include:

• Reducing Scope 1 and 2 Emissions: A commitment to cut greenhouse gas emissions from its operations (Scope 1) and purchased energy (Scope 2) by 52.6% by 2030, using a 2019 baseline.
• Reducing Scope 3 Emissions: A target to reduce Scope 3, Category 11| Use of sold products—by 42% by 2030 from a 2021 baseline.

Gayle Schueller, Senior Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer at 3M, emphasised the importance of these targets:

"3M has a long history of reducing its greenhouse gas emissions. The validation of our targets by SBTi reflects years of collaboration and dedication by 3Mers working on a detailed action plan to innovate across our portfolio to decarbonise the industry, accelerate our climate solutions and improve our environmental footprint."

Scope 3 emissions reduction

One of the most significant aspects of 3 M's strategy is its focus on Scope 3. These emissions, which include indirect emissions from the entire value chain, typically account for the largest portion of a company's carbon footprint, particularly in manufacturing, where supply chains are complex and global.

By addressing Scope 3 emissions, 3M demonstrates its commitment to tackling its carbon footprint's most complex and impactful areas. The move goes beyond the company's operations and involves influencing suppliers and partners to implement more sustainable practices.

Implications for the manufacturing industry

3 M's commitment to reducing Scope 3 emissions has several critical implications for the broader manufacturing industry:

• Value chain impact: The announcement sends a clear signal throughout 3 M's value chain, urging suppliers and partners to adopt sustainable practices and innovate in materials and processes.
• Industry leadership: As a significant player, 3 M's focus on Scope 3 sets a precedent for the entire sector, encouraging other manufacturers to prioritise comprehensive emissions reductions.
• Holistic climate strategy: By shifting attention beyond Scope 1 and 2 reductions, 3M promotes a more integrated and systemic approach to sustainability.
• Regulatory and consumer alignment: The move addresses the growing pressure from regulators and consumers increasingly demanding greater transparency and sustainability commitments from businesses.
• Systemic change in decarbonisation: By targeting direct (Scope 1 and 2) and indirect emissions (Scope 3), 3M drives broader change, emphasising the need for industry-wide cooperation to achieve meaningful decarbonisation.

A comprehensive approach to emissions reduction

3M's adoption of Scope 3 targets represents a comprehensive approach to addressing climate challenges in the manufacturing industry.

With SBTi validation, the company meets international standards and demonstrates how large manufacturers can lead the way in achieving significant emissions reductions.

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