How is Scope 3 Critical to Henkel's Net Zero Journey?

Henkel has sharpened its focus on sustainability with a comprehensive roadmap aimed at achieving net-zero emissions by 2045.

Under its new plan, the company has introduced rigorous targets across all three emissions categories - Scope 1, 2 and 3 - aligning with global standards to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions throughout its operations and supply chain.

These commitments form a central part of Henkel’s "purposeful growth" agenda and are verified by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), which ensures the targets align with the Paris Climate Agreement’s goal to limit global warming to 1.5°C.

Key emission targets and verification

Henkel’s targets are structured in stages, starting with substantial cuts by 2030 and a net-zero aim by 2045.

“We all have to take responsibility and help limit global warming to 1.5°C, as set out in the Paris Climate Agreement – and we are already too close to this threshold," comments Carsten Knobel, Henkel's CEO. 

“We have therefore extended our climate commitment to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045 with concrete actions along our entire value chain.”

Motivated by a sense of urgency, Henkel’s targets stand out for addressing emissions across the entire lifecycle of its products, from raw materials to the end-of-life disposal.

This broad approach includes emissions generated in offices, warehouses, research facilities and its vehicle fleet.

Notably, Henkel is not only targeting carbon dioxide but also six other greenhouse gases defined in the Kyoto Protocol. This broader scope highlights Henkel’s intent to make a significant impact on climate change.

Scope 3 targets and consumer engagement

Henkel’s Scope 3 targets, which involve indirect emissions, reflect its commitment to accountability across its supply chain.

Scope 3 emissions, which are often among the hardest to control, stem from various sources such as raw material procurement, packaging, logistics and product end-of-life disposal.

By taking steps to mitigate these emissions, Henkel aims to significantly cut GHG output across all stages of production and product use.

Recognising that many Scope 3 emissions occur during the product application phase, Henkel has launched an initiative to encourage consumers towards more sustainable usage.

Though consumer-driven emissions cannot be directly controlled by the company, Henkel's “It starts with us” campaign promotes resource-efficient product use and educates consumers on reducing waste and energy consumption in everyday activities.

Additionally, the company’s Climate Connect programme supports decarbonisation within Henkel’s supply chain, enabling suppliers to track emissions data and implement targeted emission reductions.

This collaborative approach involves data collection, training and agreed actions on decarbonisation, focusing on both immediate and longer-term reductions.

Driving decarbonisation with energy efficiency

Henkel’s pathway to achieving net-zero relies on direct abatement methods, which include increasing energy efficiency at its sites and shifting towards renewable energy sources.

Today, 89% of Henkel’s purchased electricity is renewable, and the company has already converted all energy for its Consumer Brands business in Europe to carbon-neutral sources. It aims to maintain and expand these efforts across its global operations to further reduce its carbon footprint.

Henkel is also taking significant steps to reduce emissions from its product formulations and packaging.

For example, the new packaging concept for its adhesives business uses up to 95% recycled plastic sourced from post-consumer materials. By minimising virgin plastic use, Henkel is actively working to cut emissions related to packaging materials, a notable component of Scope 3 emissions. 

In parallel, Henkel continues to develop more sustainable formulations for its products. The company is increasing the proportion of low-emission, renewable, or recycled raw materials in its manufacturing processes, reducing its reliance on high-carbon inputs.

These measures are intended to lower the carbon intensity of Henkel’s products while meeting consumer expectations for sustainable goods.

Henkel’s Climate Transition Plan outlines the company’s roadmap for operational transformation.

In addition to slashing Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 65% by 2025 (compared to 2010), Henkel has set ambitious targets for Scope 3 reductions through innovations in product design and supplier partnerships.

This comprehensive strategy involves collaborations with industry stakeholders to drive sustainable practices at every stage of production and distribution.

Fundamentally, Henkel has shown it is committed to transparency in this journey, pledging regular reporting on its sustainability progress as it navigates the route to net zero. 

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