Springer Nature shares climate action progress

Springer Nature Group has shared progress on its climate action, in particular how its net zero targets have been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

The global research publisher has issued a supplement to its 2022 Sustainable Business report. It has confirmed that the SBTi, a global body enabling businesses to set emissions reductions, has verified their net zero science-based targets. Taken together, these map out the company’s route to net zero by 2040.

Springer said: “The targets aim for ambitious emissions reductions, in line with the expectations set by the SBTi.” This includes a 54% emissions reduction target in scope 1 and 2 emissions (which includes fuel burnt on site and in vehicles and electricity used on site).

In the longer term, the group will target a 90% reduction across all scopes by 2040.

Specific action the publisher is taking to reach net zero includes the ongoing transition to digital delivery of content, changes to travel policies, and working with suppliers on common goals.

Setting targets forms one part of Springer Nature Group’s net zero plan. Some progress includes the fact the company has been carbon neutral for its offices, warehouses, fleet and flights through purchasing high quality carbon offsets. It is now prioritising emissions reductions in line with SBTi guidance and in 2021 were the first publisher to sign the Climate Pledge by committing to being net zero by 2040.

Springer’s director of sustainability and climate action officer Thea Sherer said: “Through our role as a trusted research publisher, we contribute to advancing solutions to mitigate climate change by widely disseminating leading research.

“Since 2015, we have published more than 60,000 articles or book chapters on climate action. However we also have a responsibility to reduce our own carbon emissions as a global business.

“Having our targets validated by SBTi is an important step for us as we set out to deliver for our customers while having a lighter impact on the planet. Listening to the science is second nature to us, and we look forward to putting the science we publish into action as we move towards net zero by 2040.”