Springer Nature's logistics emissions are down 50%, new supplement shows

Global research publisher Springer Nature has halved its logistics emissions, on the path to becoming net zero by 2040, and has reduced the emissions of its physical products by 30% since 2019.

The publisher has "intensified efforts" to reduce emissions in these areas, and a new report shows that it is making progress towards these goals. The second annual scope three supplement summarises the company’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventory across all scopes, from its baseline year in 2019 to 2023.

The decrease in logistics emissions, which are down nearly 11% year-on-year, are attributed to "increased efficiencies and local printing". Meanwhile, Springer Nature’s buildings also saw sustained reductions in emissions, bolstered by the publisher’s new and more energy-efficient offices in Pune.

The publisher is making progress towards its target to reach net zero by 2040, and said it is also "comfortably meeting nearer term goals".

Commenting on the supplement, Thea Sherer, vice president of sustainability and climate action officer, said: “I’m pleased to share this new scope three supplement which shows we are making good progress against our targets, and seeing reductions where it really matters – like our logistics and physical products emissions [...] Although the hard work has only just begun, this data and the positive steps we’ve taken so far helps us move in the right direction as we follow the science and take the targeted action needed.”