The ambitious goal will be achieved through a transition pathway addressing Scopes 1, 2 and 3 of carbon emissions – categories introduced by the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol. Swissport is also committing to both material near-term carbon reduction and net-zero targets by 2050 through the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).
“Setting a target for net-zero emissions is of utmost importance for Swissport,” said Warwick Brady, president and CEO of Swissport International. “Addressing climate change head-on is the most significant challenge of our time. In committing to targets which will be validated through the Science Based Targets initiative, Swissport makes a meaningful contribution to securing a sustainable future for the planet and for our business.”
SBTi goals
The Science Based Targets initiative is a collaborative effort between the CDP (formerly the Carbon Disclosure Project), United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), World Resources Institute (WRI) and World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) that motivates companies to set ambitious and scientifically sound goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in alignment with global climate targets. Companies participating in the initiative commit to defining and implementing targets that are consistent with limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Swissport is pledging to submit its targets and undergo a validation process within the next two years. Furthermore, the company intends to disclose a comprehensive transition pathway that addresses the challenges posed by climate change.
Green ground support vehicles
The electrification of its fleet of ground support vehicles is the backbone of Swissport’s efforts to reach net-zero carbon emissions. In 2022, Swissport announced plans to increase the share of electric vehicles to at least 55% of the total motorised fleet by 2032. At some Swissport locations, this has already been achieved: for example, the renewal of the company’s forklift fleet in its Finland cargo operations means 98% of it is electric. In parallel, Swissport is working with airports to coordinate and expedite the implementation of the required infrastructure such as charging stations.
Swissport has also established a near-term target for reducing Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by a minimum of 42% by 2032. To track progress on emissions targets, the company has launched a comprehensive emission reporting fully aligned with the standards of the Greenhouse Gas Protocol. The reporting includes not only Scopes 1 and 2 but also all Scope 3 carbon emissions material to Swissport’s business operations.
