Yum China Holdings, Inc. has announced that the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has approved the Company’s near-term science-based emissions reduction target, making the Company the first restaurant company in China to reach this milestone.
Yum China has pledged to align its business with the most ambitious aim of the Paris Agreement, to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels and reach net-zero by 2050. Approval of the near-term science-based targets (SBTs) marks a significant milestone of the Company’s journey towards net-zero value chain GHG emissions by 2050.
The approved near-term targets are：
- Reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions 63% by 2035 from a 2020 base year.
- Reduce Scope 3 GHG emissions from purchased goods 66.3% per ton of goods purchased by 2035 from a 2020 base year.
To drive progress, Yum China has also developed a 1.5°C-aligned decarbonization strategy and roadmap, focusing on energy efficiency improvement, renewable energy investment, and supplier engagement.
“Climate action tops the list of our sustainability priorities. The goals we set are truly ambitious and will require a lot of work and collaboration with stakeholders across the value chain,” said Joey Wat, CEO of Yum China. “However, we believe this is the right thing to do. While we will carefully evaluate our options for reaching our targets, we believe our efforts will support the delivery of long-term sustainable value for our customers, our shareholders, and our communities.”
Yum China will continue to enhance transparency in communicating its climate action, through the Company’s Annual Sustainability Report, TCFD Report (Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures) and CDP Questionnaires.
Learn more about Yum China’s environmental and sustainability work here.
