Sodexo Issues Net-Zero Deadline to Suppliers

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19 October 2023

Sodexo has stated that it will only work with suppliers who demonstrate tangible net-zero progress “through published reporting” in the future.

As part of its own net-zero by 2040 target, Sodexo first made its supply chain aware of its roadmap in March 2023. The organisation now requires suppliers representing 75 per cent of its supply chain emissions to provide a detailed annual Carbon Reduction Plan, while also reporting on scope 1 and 2 emissions at the minimum.

By September 2025, these suppliers will need to have set their net-zero science-based targets validated by the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi). By January 2030, Sodexo will only partner with suppliers who can demonstrate tangible progress through published reporting.

34 per cent of the company’s emissions are Scope 3, and therefore within its supply chain. Sodexo offers extra mentoring support to its SME and Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSEs) suppliers, who make up around 70 per cent of Sodexo’s supply chain in the UK and Ireland.

Aoife Wycherley, Head of Supply Chain, Sodexo, UK & Ireland said: “When we made our commitment to net zero by 2040, we committed to delivering on something that is truly meaningful and would have real impact. We have always known that this is not going to be easy, it will be hugely complex and will require an enormous collective effort throughout our entire value chain. 

“We are so proud of the extensive and diverse supply chain we have built – we genuinely work with some incredible businesses, big and small. Their response to this challenge and to our offer of mentoring and other support has been positive and we feel confident that this roadmap will deliver ever more impactful reductions in emissions. Many of our suppliers have already told us they are passing this message down through their own supply chain, which over time has the potential to create a significant ripple effect.”

Picture: a photograph of a person filling out paperwork on a clipboard. Image Credit: Pexels

Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 19 October 2023

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