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Science Based Targets initiative approves Mercer International’s climate targets

Mercer International’s 35 percent greenhouse gas reduction target by 2030 was approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) as consistent with the levels required to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement.

“We believe SBTi is recognized as the most reputable standard to validate climate targets, and this recognition provides clarity and confidence in our 2050 pathway to net-zero emissions and a more sustainable future,” said David Ure, senior vice-president and CFO.  “We look forward to continued collaboration with our customers and supply chain with a common purpose to reduce greenhouse gas and our carbon footprint.”

Mercer’s commitment is to reduce Scope 1 GHG emissions by 35 percent per tonne of pulp by 2030 from a 2019 base year. The company has also committed to reducing absolute Scope 2 and Scope 3 GHG emissions by 35 percent by 2030 from a 2019 base year. These targets are consistent with reductions necessary to keep warming to well below 2°C.

SBTi helps companies establish science-based targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transform business operations to fit the future low-carbon economy. Targets adopted to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are considered to be “science-based” if they are in line with what the latest available climate science says is necessary to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement – to limit global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C.