Stagecoach has had its greenhouse gas (GHG) emission targets approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), coinciding with the transport firm launching nearly two dozen electric buses.
The Scotland-based transport firm has made several carbon reduction pledges including a 55.6% reduction in scope 1 & 2 GHG emissions by 2032, with a 54.6% reduction in scope 3 emissions (compared to 2019 levels).
Stagecoach has also committed to continue to source 100% renewable energy through to 2030, as part of its eco pledges.
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The SBTi approval comes as Stagecoach unveils 23 new electric buses for the south Yorkshire town of Rotherham, in partnership with South Yorkshire Combined Authority and supported by government funding.
The new ‘Electro’ branded vehicles will operate on routes from Rotherham to Doncaster and Barnsley.
Greg Ritt, head of sustainability, Stagecoach, said: “We’re delighted that our near-term commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions have been approved by SBTi as aligning to the latest scientific evidence on climate change.
“There is much work to do, but the SBTi’s validation strengthens further our sustainability strategy commitments to minimise carbon emissions and support the prosperity of the local communities that we serve.”
Earlier this year, the government announced that nearly 1,000 zero-emission buses will hit the road, as it invests £143m in greener transport across England.