SBTi Confirms Bayer鈥檚 Mid-Term Emission Reduction Goals
- 24-Apr-2025 3:59 PM
- Journalist: John Keats
Bayer鈥檚 mid-term targets for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions鈥攊ncluding key pollutants like carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O)鈥攈ave once again been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), reinforcing the company鈥檚 dedication to climate action. SBTi, which supports companies in setting science-aligned emissions reduction goals, has approved Bayer鈥檚 Net Zero strategy. Following the latest SBTi criteria, Bayer has pledged to cut Scope 3 emissions鈥攖hose generated across its value chain鈥攂y 25% by 2029. This target is part of Bayer鈥檚 broader Climate Transition and Transformation Plan, launched in 2024, which outlines the company鈥檚 goal to slash total GHG emissions across all business operations and supply chains by 90% no later than 2050. Any remaining emissions that cannot be avoided will be offset using long-term carbon removal measures.
To meet these ambitions, Bayer is implementing significant cuts in its direct and indirect emissions. By 2029, it intends to reduce Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions (those generated by its own operations and purchased energy) by 42%, using 2019 as the baseline year. Scope 3 emissions鈥攁ccounting for the majority of Bayer鈥檚 carbon footprint鈥攑ose a particular challenge due to their indirect nature. Recognizing this, Bayer has adopted SBTi鈥檚 stricter new framework to bolster its Scope 3 targets.
Bayer鈥檚 environmental efforts have also been recognized by the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), a global benchmark in corporate environmental transparency. CDP awarded Bayer its highest score, 鈥淎鈥, in both climate and water categories, acknowledging the company鈥檚 leadership in sustainability. Since 2015, Bayer has consistently received ratings of 鈥淎鈥 or 鈥淎-鈥 in these areas. CDP evaluates organizations based on criteria such as the completeness of disclosures, environmental risk management, and the adoption of best practices. For forest-related disclosures, Bayer earned a 鈥淏鈥, slightly below its climate and water scores but still indicative of strong performance.
Bayer鈥檚 decarbonization strategy combines energy efficiency, innovation, renewable energy transitions, and carbon offsetting. Notable progress includes renewable energy agreements with Currenta, Wuppertaler Stadtwerke, and CatCreek. Recognizing that over 70% of its Scope 3 emissions stem from purchased goods and services, Bayer has launched its Scope 3 Accelerator Program. Through this initiative, Bayer collaborates with suppliers to promote sustainable practices such as energy-efficient production and the use of renewables. This proactive engagement is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action), showcasing Bayer鈥檚 comprehensive approach to environmental responsibility.
Executive Vice President Matthias Berninger emphasized Bayer鈥檚 long-term commitment to climate leadership, transparency, and accountability, highlighting the critical link between climate action and sustainable agriculture in a warming world.