Lenovo aims to hit net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050

MORRISVILLE – Lenovo, the world’s top PC manufacturer, says it aims to reach net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050 and says it has scientific support to validate progress.

The company, which maintains dual headquarters in the Triangle and Beijing, says it is working with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) on its plans. Lenovo says it is the first PC and smartphone manufacturer to do so. SBTI is a partnership including the UN Global Compact and World Wide Fund for Nature.

“As a global technology leader, Lenovo has been committed to reducing its emissions for more than a decade,” said Lenovo Chairman Yuanqing Yang. “In the fight against climate change, we believe collaboration and accountability are the two critical elements needed for collective success. We remain dedicated to following climate science, standardizing our measurements, and seeking ongoing validation for our targets and progress.”

Lenovo says SBTi “helps hold companies accountable for their emissions reduction” for three reasons:

Standardization: SBTi is the first body to standardize what net-zero means as it relates to the effort to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Adaptation: SBTi’s standard is dynamic and responsive to companies’ collective effort and the changing temperature of the planet.
Accountability: While 2050 seems far away for many, many leaders making commitments today may not be in their positions in 27 years. Aligning goals to reduce climate change to an external body provides accountability and continuity.

“Climate science tells us that we need rapid and deep emissions cuts if we are to achieve global net-zero and prevent the most damaging effects of climate change,” said Luiz Amaral, Chief Executive Officer of the Science Based Targets initiative. “Lenovo’s net-zero targets match the urgency of the climate crisis and set a clear example that their peers must follow.”

Lenovo says its long-term 2050 goals coincide with near-term, SBTi-validated 2030 emissions reduction goals,