Etsy commits to net zero emissions goal

A handmade and vintage goods e-commerce retailer is stepping up its carbon reduction efforts.

Etsy, which launched a program to offset carbon emissions caused by its shipments in February 2019, is setting a new target to reach net zero emissions by 2030. The company’s reduction objectives will follow the protocol of the Science Based Target Initiative and will include a 50% absolute reduction in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions (including office operations and purchased energy) and a 13.5% absolute reduction in Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions (including seller activities like shipping and packaging). 

Amazon and Walmart have both pledged to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2040.

As part of this new carbon reduction effort, Etsy will increase its focus on working with sustainable vendors and suppliers, further its advocacy for the decarbonization of the logistics and transportation sector, and address opportunities for cleaner fulfillment. Etsy’s integrated reporting model enables the company to share impact updates alongside its financial results, and its forthcoming 2020 integrated annual report will incorporate additional best practices for reporting on its climate progress, including the Task Force on Climate Related Financial Disclosures framework. 

“Climate change remains an ever-present threat to our environment and humanity, and we are bound and determined to do everything within our power to not only continue to be a carbon neutral company, but to also drive reductions in our overall footprint,” Etsy CEO Josh Silverman said in a corporate blog post.