blog

Navigating net zero

Net_Zero_Image

Decarbonisation is fundamental to ISS’ vision for a greener future. But what does this mean for ISS operations both locally and globally? Here, we spotlight key decarbonisation priorities in facilities management and share how ISS seeks to transform its operations to achieve net zero ambitions.

Defining sustainability and decarbonisation

For ISS, sustainability means adopting enduring business practices that preserve resources and protect the environment, while balancing long-term economic success. Our goal is to ensure that our operations are not only profitable but also responsible, safeguarding the well-being of future generations.

Our primary objective is to reach net-zero emissions by 2040, balancing greenhouse gas emissions released with those removed from the atmosphere. To achieve this, ISS has aligned its sustainability goals with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi),  ISS-near-term-emissions-reduction-target-validated-by-the-Science-Based-Targets-initiative  adhering to a framework that limits global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius as outlined in the Paris Agreement.

Decoding emission scopes

The Greenhouse Gas Protocol Scopes categorise greenhouse gas emissions into 3 scopes based on their origin in an organisation’s value chain.

Scope 1: direct emissions from facilities and resources under ISS’ control, such as company vehicles and on-site equipment.
Scope 2: indirect emissions from purchased energy, such as electricity used in our offices.
Scope 3: emissions across the value chain, including purchased goods and services, business travel and waste disposal.

For ISS, scope 3 emissions constitute the majority of our carbon footprint, approximately 95%, highlighting the importance of comprehensive value chain management.

Setting ambitious goals

ISS is committed to achieving the following targets:

Scope 1 & 2: Net zero by 2030, surpassing SBTi targets for accelerated progress.

Scope 3: A 47.5% reduction in emissions by 2030, and net zero by 2040.

Understanding these scopes is critical to communicating with customers effectively.

AdobeStock_309192881

Data-driven decarbonisation with Watershed

To track our progress on this decarbonisation journey, we've adopted Watershed, a carbon accounting and reporting tool that aggregates data from across our operations. This platform allows us to monitor emissions at regional, contract and equipment levels, providing detailed insights and informing precise action plans to track and manage our environmental footprint. Our baseline year is 2019, and we’re continuously refining our data to enhance accuracy and effectiveness to facilitate customer-specific conversations around sustainability.

AdobeStock_325535635

Engaging customers and suppliers

Open communication with customers is crucial for tangible progress. By aligning our efforts with clients’ sustainability objectives, we can accelerate change through collaboration, integrating greener solutions within relevant contracts.

Additionally, partnering with suppliers who share our sustainability priorities significantly reduces overall embodied carbon emissions throughout the supply chain.

Building a greener future 

Sustainability at ISS is a collective responsibility embedded in our purpose-led culture. Every decision considers its environmental impact, moving us towards a more sustainable future.

By understanding our emissions, setting ambitious targets, leveraging data through tools like Watershed, and fostering a culture of collective responsibility, we are positioned to drive change in sustainable business practices. 

Learn more about our sustainability efforts here: ISS sustainability report.

PEOPLE MAKE PLACES

330,000+ people   |   30+ countries   |   40,000+ customers