Coles has introduced a new Scope 3 emissions supplier engagement target that will see the retailer work in partnership with at least 75 per cent of its suppliers by spend to set science-based emissions reduction targets by the end of June 2027.
Scope 3 emissions are indirect emissions that occur throughout the life cycle of a product, including agriculture, processing, manufacturing and distribution, and make up the majority of Coles' overall emissions.
Coles chief operations and sustainability officer Matt Swindells said the retailer would work with its suppliers over the next four years to support them to set their own science-based emissions reduction targets.
“We understand that we need to reduce our own emissions as well as those that occur in our supply chain, and we are looking forward to working alongside our suppliers to help them set their own targets and reduce emissions. Whether our suppliers are just starting out on their emissions reduction journeys, or already making progress in achieving their own targets, we are committed to working together to reduce emissions and achieve our sustainability ambitions,” Swindells said.
The target has been approved by the internationally recognised Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) that drives climate action by enabling global organisations to set science-based emissions reduction targets.
This is the latest step in the retailer’s journey to be net zero by 2050, with Coles committed to reducing Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by more than 75 per cent by the end of June 2023, and achieving its 100 per cent renewable electricity target by the end of June 2025 through onsite solar and largescale generation certificate deals, as well as investment in renewable projects, which offset its electricity consumption.
Coles tomato supplier Sundrop Farms CEO Steve Marafiote welcomed the retailer’s new supplier related target and said it provided the industry with direction on how to lower emissions.
“We’ve been working with Coles over the past eight years to lower emissions on our farm. Thanks to the partnership, we’ve been able to invest in solar and desalination technology which has both lowered our emissions and allowed us to supply delicious tomatoes to Coles customers all year round,” said Marafiote.
Meat and Livestock Australia MD Jason Strong congratulated Coles on working with its suppliers to take positive action on climate, as the Australian red meat and livestock sector works towards achieving its target of being carbon neutral by 2030.
“Initiatives like this have potential to provide direction and leadership to help achieve our target of carbon neutrality by 2030. We look forward to seeing the progress Coles can make with its supply chain in the coming years,” Strong said.
This new target and resulting emission reductions will help Coles and its suppliers support the delivery of Australia’s national Paris Agreement commitment to reduce emissions by 43 per cent from 2005 levels by 2030 and net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050.
