Ulrik Nordgaard

August 12, 2024

SBTi approves Ramboll’s science-based Net-Zero targets

The global Science Based Targets initiative has verified Ramboll’s net-zero science-based target by 2040, further cementing our company’s commitment to take climate action at pace and scale. 

Michael Simmelsgaard, Group Chief Operating Officer, Markets, memeber of the Group Executive Board
Michael Simmelsgaard, Ramboll Chief Operation Officer

With the verification of Ramboll’s 2040 net-zero target and updated 2030 carbon reduction targets by the SBTi, the company takes another substantial step to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across the value chain.

As of June 2024, only 16 professional services companies in the world have committed themselves to a validated net-zero science-based target by 2040, which is 10 years earlier than the 2050 deadline for global net zero.

“Climate science tells us that we need rapid and deep emissions cuts if we are to achieve global net-zero and prevent the most damaging effects of climate change,” said Luiz Amaral, Chief Executive Officer of the Science Based Targets initiative. Ramboll’s net-zero targets match the urgency of the climate crisis and set a clear example that their peers must follow.”

Ramboll’s COO, Michael Simmelsgaard, welcomes the SBTi validation:

“As a company with more than 18,000 employees and a global footprint, we are unwavering in our commitment to prioritise action and make a real impact that matters. I am delighted that Ramboll’s steady and tangible work to reduce emissions in the value chain, and our ambitious net-zero goal for 2040, are now verified by the SBTi.”

He continues:

“Whether it be renewable energy, buildings renovation, low-carbon infrastructure, nature-based urban planning, circularity, or new strategies for biodiversity, our clients are increasingly engaging with us to find new, innovative solutions to old problems. With validated science-based targets we will not only become better at driving change ourselves, but we will also accelerate change for our clients, working even more closely with them to implement new strategies for decarbonisation of the built environment and infrastructure, energy transition at scale, and new strategies for sustainable transformation across sectors.

A thorough process

Camila Forero Bordamalo has been running Ramboll’s Global Climate Action Programme since 2022 and is thrilled to finally receive the verification by the SBTi:

“The process leading up to the validation has been long and thorough. In preparation for the submission, we have collaborated across our global organisation to improve emissions data quality and tracking mechanisms, updating methodologies and accounting policies, of which we have obtained third-party assurance, as well as defining a clear carbon removal strategy to fulfil our net-zero commitment. I want to thank all our colleagues and partners who have contributed to this milestone, and I look forward to continuing this important and ambitious work together.”

Ramboll’s approved science-based targets: near- and long-term targets go hand in hand
  • Ramboll commits to reach net-zero GHG emissions across the value chain by 2040. This means Ramboll commits to reduce absolute scope 1, 2, and 3 GHG emissions from purchased goods and services, fuel- and energy-related activities, business travel, employee commuting, and use of sold products 90% by 2040 from a 2019 base year. The remaining 10% will be neutralised in line with SBTi criteria.
  • Additionally, Ramboll commits to reduce absolute scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions 53.9% by 2030 from a 2019 base year. Ramboll also commits to reduce absolute scope 3 GHG emissions from fuel- and energy-related activities and business travel 27.5% within the same timeframe. Ramboll commits to reduce scope 3 GHG emissions from use of sold products 55% per ton of product produced within the same timeframe.
  • Finally, Ramboll Group commits that 70% of its suppliers by emissions covering purchased goods and services will have science-based targets by 2028.

Want to know more?

  • Michael Simmelsgaard

    Group Chief Operation Officer, Markets

    Michael Simmelsgaard