Ahlstrom targets a net-zero future as part of its commitment to reducing carbon footprint in line with Science Based Targets initiative; next step is to develop targets in line with SBTi’s criteria and submit them for validation within 24 months

The urgent need for climate action and the importance of rapid emissions cuts are crucial in combatting climate change. In July 2022, Ahlstrom published its renewed strategy and purpose, in which we commit to reducing our carbon footprint in line with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and joined the Business Ambition for 1.5°C campaign. As part of the SBTi commitment, Ahlstrom will make a step change in sustainability and lead the way toward a Net-Zero future. 

According to IPCC’s latest report, “The cumulative scientific evidence is unequivocal: Climate change is a threat to human well-being and planetary health. Any further delay in concerted anticipatory global action on adaptation and mitigation will miss a brief and rapidly closing window of opportunity to secure a liveable and sustainable future for all.” 

Ahlstrom has fully recognized the urgency for climate action and wants to make an impact on the shift towards a more sustainable world. Ahlstrom has committed to setting Net-Zero and ambitious near-term company-wide emission reduction targets in line with climate science with the Science Based Targets initiative. Currently, there are more than 3500 business and financial institutions taking action and showing climate leadership with the SBTi. Out of these, some 1400 companies have committed to Net-Zero standard, Ahlstrom being one of them. 

“During the past year we have made a significant step change in sustainability and put it as a key value driver for our growing business,” says Johan Lunabba, VP of Sustainability and Public Affairs. “We have a sharper sustainability strategy, and are committed to achieving the 1.5°C Science-based target towards 2030 and to Net-Zero emissions by 2050 the latest,” he adds. 

The next step is to develop the targets in line with the SBTi’s criteria and submit them for validation within 24 months. The target development is underway, and Ahlstrom has already calculated its emission reduction targets. In the near-term, the company aims to cut its Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 38% by 2030 from a 2021 base year. In addition, Ahlstrom also commits to achieving Net-Zero emissions by 2050 at the latest, which in practice represents an emissions reduction by 90% from 2021 initial levels.  

“We have worked closely with our different functions and units to identify potential levers to decrease our Scope 1 and 2 emissions. We have identified more than 170 initiatives related to energy efficiency and emission reduction. Some initiatives have already been started to be implemented. The most recent is taking place at our Mosinee and Rhinelander sites in Wisconsin, USA, where boiler conversions will allow us to significantly reduce our Scope 1 emissions,” says Paulina Velez, Manager of Climate Change & LCA.  

All of those initiatives are not only in line with Ahlstrom’s goal to become the Preferred Sustainable Specialty Materials Company, but also enable its customers to reach their sustainability targets through its innovation, technology, and products.     

Ahlstrom has recently started mapping its Scope 3 emissions and calls on all its stakeholders in the value chain to join the effort with net zero on this #NetZeroActionDay.