Austria-headed cellulose fibre major Lenzing AG (Lenzing Group), a member of the CEO Climate Leaders Group of the World Economic Forum (WEF) and a signatory to the United Nations Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action, has announced that it will "drastically reduce" its carbon dioxide footprint. Lenzing Group will invest EUR 100 million over the coming years to reduce carbon emissions both inside its operational boundaries (scope 1+2) and in its supply chain (scope 3).
A first milestone is set for 2030 when Lenzing plans to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions per tonne of product by almost 50 percent (scope 1+2 and 3) compared to a 2017 baseline. The total CO2 reduction of all the planned initiatives will yield 1.3 million tonnes. In so doing, Lenzing Group will further contribute towards helping customers to transition their business to a lower CO2 base.
Climate change is the most important issue mankind is facing. With this commitment, we are fully in line with the Paris climate agreement and will further help the world to reduce the speed of global warming. Our ambitious decarbonization targets make us a front runner, not only in the world of fiber producers but also among major industrial companies. Despite the substantial investment that is necessary, we are convinced that this is not only a very responsible step but that it will also be a value-generating move. It is our responsibility towards our children and grandchildren to act now, said Stefan Doboczky, Chief Executive Officer of the Lenzing Group.
A series of measures in production as well as new innovations and adaptations to new technologies will help achieve these ambitious targets. A major contribution will also come from investments in the production of highly eco-responsible products such as TENCEL branded lyocell fibers.
In addition, the “drastic improvement” of energy efficiency and an increase in the share of renewable energy in the energy mix will deliver the targets set. The company currently operates seven production facilities located in Austria, China, Czech Republic, Indonesia, the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States (US).
To underpin this strategy, Lenzing will commit itself to the Science-Based Targets initiative, the most recognized organization in the field of climate-relevant target setting. This step is a significant contribution to green up the textile industry and will help our partners to offer consumers textiles with an ecologically responsible footprint, added Robert van de Kerkhof, Chief Commercial Officer of the Lenzing Group.
Targets adopted by companies to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are considered “science-based” if they are in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement.
