Published December 12, 2023

Decarbonization, a collective challenge

In just one year, Saint-Gobain Surface Solutions' Supplier Green Deal has successfully engaged an increasing number of suppliers in decarbonizing their operations. With dedicated support from our teams, they have embraced transparency, data exchange, and expertise sharing. 

The momentum is growing, with more suppliers becoming actively involved. This encapsulates the essence of Saint-Gobain Surface Solutions' Supplier Green Deal after its first year. To commemorate this milestone, a videoconference was held on December 5 from the Saint-Gobain Tower. A remarkable 112 business unit suppliers, representing two-thirds of SGSS Scope 3 emissions, participated, underscoring their commitment to this mutually beneficial partnership that facilitates decarbonization efforts. Their journey is supported by the expertise of Saint-Gobain Surface Solutions' sustainability, R&D, marketing, and operational teams, who provide guidance every step of the way.

A CUSTOMIZED APPROACH FOR EVERY PARTNER

During the event, we reiterated the urgent need for climate action and reaffirmed our unwavering commitment to Saint-Gobain Surface Solutions' objectives: achieving a 40% absolute reduction in CO2 emissions from scope 1 and 2 by 2030, compared to 2017 levels. We also highlighted the crucial role of suppliers in the journey toward carbon neutrality, as we aim to reduce emissions related to scope 3 by 16%, encompassing all purchases except energy. To facilitate this, the Supplier Green Deal offers suppliers a tailored framework for progress, whether they are in the initial stages or advanced in their decarbonization efforts. Suppliers are encouraged to take action and formalize their CO2 reduction trajectory of scopes 1 and 2 for 2025-2030, committing to a Science-Based Target Initiative (SBTi) reduction approach by 2030 and cascading this approach to their own suppliers.

Three suppliers shared their progress under this initiative. XMF Tools completed its first product life cycle assessment (LCA) and achieved certification for its environmental management system. Prefere Resins hired two ESG managers and embarked on Ecovadis certification. Dow, a leading chemical group, emphasized the transformative power of transparency in driving decarbonization and endorsed data sharing with SGSS BU teams.

A comprehensive toolkit has been provided to kick-start the process. "A structured approach like the Supplier Green Deal is highly likely to yield the desired results," remarked Elmar Boeke, CEO of Prefere Resins. "This was a clear indication to me that change is inevitable, and there's no turning back!"

Upon reflection on the 2nd Supplier Green Deal, Jean-Claude, General Manager of Saint-Gobain Surface Solutions, extended heartfelt appreciation to both teams and suppliers for their commitment to ambitious sustainability objectives. Aldric Barbier, Director of Sustainability, echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude and emphasizing our steadfast determination to achieve a 16% reduction in scope 3 emissions by 2030. We are wholeheartedly committed to assisting our suppliers on this journey toward decarbonization within the industry.

Main image, shown left to right: 

Aldric Barbier, Sustainability Director, Surface Solutions  

Camille Bossanne, Strategy Director, Surface Solutions 

Jean-Claude Lasserre, General Manager, Surface Solutions

Fabrice Hedde, VP Purchasing Saint-Gobain Abrasives