The John Lewis Partnership has become the first retailer in the UK to have its net-zero science-based targets validated by the official body that validates climate targets.
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) – the gold standard for setting and monitoring corporate climate targets – has validated the partnership’s target to become net-zero across its own operations by 2035, and wider supply chain by 2050.
The achievement demonstrates the partnership’s clear commitment to play our part to limit the global temperature rise to 1.5°C – as called for in the Paris Agreement.
The partnership, which owns John Lewis and Waitrose, is also the first retailer in the world to have validated SBTi science-based targets focused on greenhouse gas emissions originating from ‘forests, land and agriculture’, which make up part of its total emissions footprint alongside the energy used to run stores and make products.
The RetailX UK Top100 retailer is already working to move all of its vehicles away from fossil fuels by transitioning larger vehicles to run on biomethane and smaller vans on electricity.
Within its retail operations, John Lewis is offering fashion rental for occasion and childrenswear. It is also developing product standards for longevity, recyclability and using more sustainable materials.
The partnership is also launching integrated energy efficiency insights on online John Lewis products, so customers can see at a glance how much money they can save by choosing a more efficient product.
Marija Rompani, director of sustainability at the John Lewis Partnership, said: “Reaching net-zero by 2050 means transforming our business in every way, from how we design our goods to last, how we and our suppliers power our farms, factories and stores, and how we make it easier for our customers to make more sustainable choices.”
Looking at its energy usage, the partnership aims to procure 100% renewable electricity across all its operations, while upgrading fridges to reduce the warming impact of refrigerant gases.
Furthermore, Waitrose will turn to its suppliers to set their own net-zero targets.
Simon Winch, environment lead at the John Lewis Partnership, added: “Coming up with a set of credible targets for our road to net-zero is the culmination of many months of focused work and determined preparation. Validation by SBTi gives us great confidence in the targets and our plans.
“But we know this is only the start. The validation of our science-based targets will turbocharge the change needed in our business to transform how we operate and help ensure that the world remains in sight of limiting global warming to no more than 1.5°C.”
