Schaeffler Sets New Greenhouse Gas Reduction Targets

The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has validated Schaeffler AG’s greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets. The organization confirmed that the targets meet its criteria and recommendations for near-term targets. The Schaeffler Group has further developed its sustainability strategy following its merger with Vitesco Technologies. The company achieved significant reductions through its previous strategy before the merger.

Schaeffler Targets Emissions Reductions by 2035

Schaeffler now aims to reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 42% by 2035. The company will use 2025, the first fully consolidated year after the merger, as its base year.

The company also aims to reduce absolute Scope 3 emissions by 30% over the same period. These emissions include purchased goods and services, capital goods, fuel and energy activities, upstream transportation and distribution, operational waste and business travel.

“The validation of our climate targets by the Science Based Targets initiative marks an important milestone for Schaeffler on the path to climate neutrality. It means our climate targets are grounded in science, transparent and aligned with our responsibilities as a company. We recognize, however, that setting targets alone does not reduce emissions,” said Schaeffler CEO Klaus Rosenfeld. “The real work lies ahead. Further progress will be possible if we consistently align our actions with sustainability throughout our value chains. Following the acquisition of Vitesco, we are using 2025 as our new base year. We have a long-term perspective and are guided by our corporate values. For us, sustainability is both an obligation and an opportunity. Only by systematically integrating sustainability into our decisions and embedding it in our strategy can we lay the foundations for profitable growth and secure our long-term viability.”

Company Supports Paris Agreement

The Schaeffler Group supports the Paris Agreement and has set a goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The SBTi has not validated this long-term goal, although it has validated the company’s two near-term targets.

Schaeffler aims to reduce Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions by 90% by 2050 compared with the 2025 base year. The company also plans to neutralize remaining emissions in accordance with applicable net-zero requirements.

The company’s Climate Transition Plan provides the framework for these efforts. Schaeffler established the plan in 2026 as part of its updated sustainability strategy.

SBTi Validates Climate Targets

Companies submit science-based climate targets to the Science Based Targets initiative or SBTi Services for validation. A formal review process determines whether the targets meet the SBTi’s criteria in effect at the time of submission.

The SBTi is a global organization that supports companies in setting science-based climate targets. Its work aligns with the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

The organization develops standards, methods and guidelines for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It also validates climate targets that companies submit.

The SBTi provides validation information on its website.