Glaston Submits Emission Reduction Targets to SBTi for Validation

Glaston Corp. has agreed to set near-term company-wide emission cutbacks in line with science-based emissions reduction targets set by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). Officials say Glaston has sent its cutback plans to SBTi for validation. Glaston’s plans aim to reduce direct scope one (direct greenhouse gas emissions) and two (purchased energy emissions) and indirect scope three (company value chain) emissions by 2032.

Glaston Corp. has agreed to set near-term company-wide emission cutbacks in line with science-based emissions reduction targets set by SBTi. Photo courtesy of Glaston.

Officials explain that Glaston has committed to reducing absolute scope one and two greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) by 50% by 2032, compared to the 2022 base year. The target aligns with limiting global warming to 1.5°C, the most ambitious criterion for setting science-based targets. Glaston has also committed to reducing scope three GHG emission intensity by 58% per square meter of sold glass processing capacity within the same target period.

Officials say SBTi will evaluate the targets, and they estimate the final, validated target will be published during the second half of 2024.

“Promoting sustainable development is an integral part of our business strategy as our technologies enable more energy-efficient and safe glass products,” says Päivi Lindqvist, chief financial officer and sponsor of the strategic cornerstone project for sustainable business. “Reducing our carbon footprint is one way to demonstrate our commitment to sustainability and frontrunner position.”

Lindqvist adds that Glaston achieved its first emissions reduction target in 2022 when it reduced CO2 emissions from its operations by more than 50% in net sales compared to 2020.

Sustainability director Marko Mökkönen says the company plans to phase out natural gas and other fossil fuel sources and increase the share of renewable energy.

“To reach the scope three intensity target, Glaston has further to improve the energy efficiency of the sold products, support customers in their emissions reduction initiatives, and implement measures to decrease emissions in other parts of the value chain like purchased goods,” says Mökkönen.