Schneider Electric's Sustainability Journey: 2024 Goals Achieved, Future Plans Unveiled

Viktoria Ivanova

6 min read

Post on Apr 30, 2025

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2024 Sustainability Goals Achieved: A Milestone Reached

Schneider Electric's commitment to environmental responsibility has yielded impressive results. Their 2024 sustainability goals, focused on reducing emissions, increasing renewable energy usage, and promoting a circular economy, have been largely met, marking a significant milestone in their sustainability journey.

Significant Reductions in Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Schneider Electric has demonstrated a strong commitment to reducing its environmental footprint, achieving substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions across all three scopes.

• Scope 1 and 2 Emissions: Schneider Electric reduced Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 28% compared to the 2018 baseline. This significant decrease is attributed to various initiatives, including a massive increase in renewable energy sourcing and energy efficiency improvements across their global facilities. The company implemented energy-efficient technologies like LED lighting, optimized HVAC systems, and invested heavily in building automation to minimize energy consumption.

• Scope 3 Emissions: While Scope 3 emissions, encompassing indirect emissions from the value chain, present a greater challenge, Schneider Electric achieved a 15% reduction in intensity by collaborating with suppliers and implementing sustainable supply chain practices. This included promoting the use of sustainable materials, optimizing logistics, and engaging suppliers in their sustainability efforts.

• Data-Driven Approach: Schneider Electric's success is partly due to its rigorous data-driven approach. Continuous monitoring, detailed reporting, and transparent communication of progress are key to tracking and managing emissions effectively. This data-driven strategy ensures accountability and allows for continuous improvement.

Progress in Renewable Energy Adoption

A core element of Schneider Electric's sustainability strategy is the transition to renewable energy sources. Their commitment to clean energy has significantly increased their renewable energy consumption.

• Renewable Energy Portfolio: Schneider Electric increased renewable energy usage to 70% across its global operations. This includes sourcing renewable energy from various sources such as solar, wind, and hydro power. The company actively invests in on-site renewable energy generation at many of its facilities, furthering its commitment to energy independence and sustainability.

• Strategic Partnerships: Schneider Electric also engages in strategic partnerships with renewable energy providers and participates in large-scale renewable energy projects to further its goals. Their investments are strategically distributed across multiple regions to ensure energy security and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

• Geographical Distribution: Schneider Electric strategically deploys renewable energy sources across diverse geographical locations, minimizing environmental impact and optimizing energy sourcing efficiency, reflecting a commitment to sustainable practices on a global scale.

Circular Economy Initiatives and Waste Reduction

Embracing the principles of the circular economy is crucial to Schneider Electric's sustainability vision. Their initiatives have led to significant waste reduction and improved resource management.

• Waste Reduction Programs: Schneider Electric implemented comprehensive waste reduction programs, achieving a 25% reduction in waste sent to landfills. This is a testament to their commitment to responsible resource management and the reduction of their environmental footprint.

• Recycling and Reuse: The company has invested in robust recycling and reuse programs for various materials, including electronics, plastics, and packaging. This involves close collaboration with recycling partners and the development of innovative material recovery technologies.

• Product Lifecycle Management: Schneider Electric is also focusing on extending the lifecycle of their products through repair, refurbishment, and reuse programs. This significantly reduces the environmental impact associated with product disposal and manufacturing.

Unveiling Future Sustainability Plans: Ambitious Targets for the Decade Ahead

Schneider Electric's commitment to sustainability extends far beyond 2024. They've set ambitious targets for the coming decade, focusing on net-zero emissions, a more sustainable product portfolio, and continued investment in sustainability innovation.

Net-Zero Emissions Target and Roadmap

Schneider Electric is committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This ambitious target is supported by a comprehensive roadmap that encompasses several key initiatives:

• Decarbonization Strategies: The roadmap outlines a multi-pronged approach to decarbonization, including continued investments in renewable energy, increased energy efficiency improvements, and the responsible sourcing of materials.

• Carbon Offset Programs: Schneider Electric is also exploring and implementing various carbon offsetting strategies to neutralize any remaining emissions that are difficult to eliminate. This involves supporting verified carbon offset projects that contribute to environmental conservation and sustainability initiatives.

• Technological Advancements: Schneider Electric will continue investing in technological advancements to reduce emissions throughout its operations and across its value chain.

Expanding Sustainable Product Portfolio

Schneider Electric is actively developing and expanding its portfolio of sustainable products. This includes:

• Energy-Efficient Products: Schneider Electric is launching new ranges of energy-efficient products designed to help customers significantly reduce their energy consumption and carbon footprint. These products are designed with sustainability as a key focus throughout their lifecycle.

• Sustainable Materials: The company is increasingly using sustainable materials in the manufacturing of its products, minimizing the environmental impact of its supply chain. This is supported by close collaboration with suppliers to source responsible materials.

• EcoDesign Principles: Schneider Electric actively integrates EcoDesign principles into the design and manufacturing processes of its products, leading to more sustainable outcomes throughout their entire life cycle.

Investing in Sustainability Innovation and Research

Schneider Electric is committed to investing heavily in research and development to drive sustainability innovation. This includes:

• R&D Investments: Schneider Electric plans to invest €500 million in R&D to develop cutting-edge sustainable technologies. This commitment underscores their belief that innovation is critical to addressing environmental challenges.

• Collaborative Partnerships: They are actively collaborating with research institutions, universities, and other organizations to accelerate the development and deployment of sustainable technologies.

• Technology Adoption: The company also actively adopts and implements innovative sustainable technologies across its operations and in the products it offers to customers.

Conclusion

Schneider Electric's journey towards sustainability is marked by significant achievements and ambitious future plans. Their success in reaching 2024 goals showcases their strong commitment to environmental responsibility. Their focus on reducing emissions, embracing renewable energy, and promoting a circular economy serves as an excellent model for other businesses. By continuing to innovate and set bold targets, Schneider Electric is not only meeting its own sustainability goals but is also actively shaping a more sustainable future for all. Learn more about Schneider Electric's sustainability initiatives and how you can contribute to a greener tomorrow by visiting their website. Join Schneider Electric on their ongoing journey towards a more sustainable future, and explore how their commitment to Schneider Electric Sustainability can benefit your business.