JCDecaux carbon reduction trajectory approved by STBi

JCDecaux has announced that its carbon reduction trajectory has been approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). Known as the "Corporate Net Zero norm", this climate action organisation supports companies worldwide in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and their decarbonisation via a methodology consistent with the IPCC's recommendations. JCDecaux says that the designation through the SBTi process reaffirms its commitment to actively participating in the fight against climate change by adopting eco-responsible practices and promoting sustainable innovation in its business practices.

"One year on from unveiling and starting to deploy our ambitious Climate Strategy geared towards the goal of "Net Zero Carbon", we are very proud to achieve the validation of the SBTi after a multi-step process. Reducing our environmental footprint is one of JCDecaux's long-standing commitments," says Jean-Charles Decaux, Chairman of the Executive Board and Co-Chief Executive Officer of JCDecaux.

Decaux adds, "Nearly 50% of our 2023 revenues are aligned with this European regulation. As the number one worldwide in our business sector, we are determined to play an active role in the collective response to the challenges of climate change and to make outdoor advertising a driver of the ecological transition. JCDecaux will continue to work with all its stakeholders and to support those involved in public and private procurement to ensure that it becomes a powerful and effective driver of sustainable development, based upon quality as well as ambitious environmental and social criteria. It is through systemic actions and by engaging our entire value chain that we will contribute to Net Zero Carbon."

In June 2023, the company unveiled its Climate Strategy, including targets to continue reducing its carbon footprint across its entire value chain. Based on three principles – Measure, Reduce and Contribute beyond the Group's value chain, the strategy aims for Net Zero Carbon by 2050 (scopes 1, 2 and 3). To achieve this, JCDecaux defined a roadmap based on the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), backed by scientific data. In late 2022, the Group signed a pledge to achieve these SBTi goals and committed to submitting a low-carbon strategy with associated targets. This commitment was fulfilled in 2023. In June 2024, SBTi reviewed and approved JCDecaux's carbon reduction targets.

The SBTi's Target Validation Team has classified JCDecaux's scope 1 and 2 near-term target ambition and has determined that it aligns with a 1.5°C trajectory. The Target Validation Team has also evaluated the Group's scope 1, 2, and 3 long-term target ambition and determined that it is aligned with the SBTi's 1.5°C mitigation pathways for reaching Net Zero by 2050 or sooner.

JCDecaux's reduction trajectory is based on internal levers and external factors. As scope3 accounts for more than 90% of its carbon footprint (market-based), reaching the target will be a collective journey requiring the collaboration of all its stakeholders. Since JCDecaux's furniture footprint accounts for 42% of its scope3 emissions, it will need to cooperate with its suppliers to offer the market even more efficient low-carbon solutions without compromising on quality. To deliver this, JCDecaux will need to focus on even more responsible public/ private procurement based on compelling and assessed environmental and social criteria and partnerships with landlords.

In France, JCDecaux contributes to the collective effort set by the public authorities, particularly by the voluntary adoption of a Climate Contract and by respecting its commitment to reducing its energy consumption by 10% in 2024 compared to 2019. JCDecaux designs, installs, and maintains light infrastructure (bus shelters, street furniture, self-cleaning public toilets, self-service bicycles, etc.) in public spaces and travel hubs, thanks to the financing provided by the advertising for brands and companies displayed on that infrastructure. JCDecaux Street Furniture provides an innovative and free service for millions of people around the world, as well as for local authorities and transport companies, based on resource-efficient management.