Target:
- AECOM commits to reach net-zero GHG emissions across the value chain by FY2040 from a FY2018 base year.
- AECOM commits to reducing absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions 60% by FY2030 from a FY2018 base year.
- AECOM commits to reduce absolute Scope 3 GHG emissions from purchased goods & services, capital goods and business travel 50% by FY2030 from a FY2018 base year.
- AECOM commits to reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions 90% by FY2040 from a FY2018 base year.
- AECOM also commits to reduce absolute Scope 3 GHG emissions from purchased goods and services, capital goods and business travel 90% by FY2040 from a FY2018 base year.
Why AECOM set a science-based target
As a leading global infrastructure consultancy of nearly 50,000 scientists, engineers, planners, architects and other experts, AECOM is deeply attuned to the magnitude of the climate crisis – and how its global scale and impact can accelerate and deliver solutions.
In 2020, AECOM committed to science-based targets well below 2°C. Since then, its newly set science-based net-zero targets are among the first globally to be validated by the SBTi and aligned with 1.5°C.
How they plan to achieve their target
AECOM has already made significant progress in reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions, attaining operational net-zero emissions in 2021. Its key focus is now on reducing Scope 3 emissions.
Like many companies, most of AECOM’s Scope 3 emissions come from its supply chain. It has therefore sought better data, started engaging suppliers and fully embedding emissions reduction into its procurement processes. CDP recently began engaging AECOM's over 7,000 suppliers to garner better information on its sustainability initiatives, while also improving its procurement processes requiring information on ESG and carbon. This will inform the company’s processes for engaging with suppliers and ensuring it addresses the impact of its supply chain emissions to the fullest extent possible.
“Tackling Scope 3 emissions is a challenge, particularly for a company of our size, as we have tens of thousands of suppliers from almost every sector imaginable,” said Robert Spencer, AECOM Global Head of ESG Advisory. “Fortunately, we have some of the brightest minds in the industry and will continue to engage our clients, suppliers and partners to set new standards to eliminate emissions across our supply chain.”
As a leading professional services firm, AECOM’s biggest contribution to helping solve the climate crisis is through the work it does for its clients. “ScopeX™ is our initiative for reducing carbon through design and decarbonizing the major projects we deliver by at least 50%. Our ScopeX approach is client-focused, process-driven and enabled by data and digital tools.”
AECOM has perspective to offer companies that have yet to join the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). “Do a high-level screening of your Scope 3 emissions early on to understand your biggest area of focus,” said Ryan Burrows, AECOM Global Sustainability Manager. “You can easily expend effort gathering quality data on categories that are immaterial to you, which isn’t a good use of time. Instead, utilize the SBTi’s resources to identify critical metrics from the outset. Finally, don’t let perfect get in the way of good: get going soon.”