Project: Auto Retailer

This S&P 500 auto retailer had historically focused on social issues and worker well-being, having been named as one of the Fortune 2020 “100 Best Companies to Work For.” However, the company also recognized the importance of reducing its GHG emissions and was seeking to develop a climate, sustainability, and GHG management program. While the auto retailer had already committed to achieving net zero by 2050 and a 50% reduction in Scopes 1-2 emissions by 2025, it wasn’t sure how to approach Scope 3.  

Sustainable Business Consulting helped the auto retailer refine its Scope 3 strategy, taking into consideration the nuances of its industry – what’s relevant, what to include, and what it had control over. Our team facilitated the following:

• Ran through a workshop to explain what Scope 3 is and determine what categories were relevant according to the GHG Protocol
• Conducted a screening exercise to confirm relevance of Purchased Goods & Services and other Scope 3 categories based on historic and projected spend
• Pinpointed six Scope 3 categories for real-time data collection based on results of the screening exercise
• Conducted a full Scope 3 footprint to inform a future GHG emissions reduction strategy
• Identified projects to support GHG reduction goals, including energy conservation initiatives and renewable energy credits
• Helped client understand the tradeoff of increased energy efficiency from newer goods versus keeping used goods on the market longer

The company walked away with a better understanding of not only its own Scope 3 emissions impact but also its impact within the industry at large. With these insights in hand, the auto retailer was able to create a strategic roadmap of actions to reduce its Scope 3 emissions, align with its net zero goals, and increase industry collaboration.