Emissions reduction
Sugar production is an energy-intensive process. Therefore, reducing CO2 eq emissions and optimising energy use is of course one of our central sustainability impact areas. In this regard, we are looking at the entire value chain, from Scope 1 to Scope 3.
Our CO2 Emissions
Reduction Goals
KPI: Reduction of Scope 1 & 2 CO₂ eq emissions
- Base year (2018): Scopes 1 & 2: 1.9MT CO₂ eq, Scope 3: 2.3MT CO₂ eq
- Performance (2023): Scopes 1 & 2: –34%
- Target (2030): Scopes 1 & 2: –50.4% and Scope 3: –30%
The third impact area we focus on is the reduction of emissions. We seek to reduce Scopes 1 and 2 CO₂ equivalent emissions by 50% by 2030. That means we’re in the process of phasing out coal and switching to natural gas or biogas, working on energy efficiency, and obtaining our electrical energy in Scope 2 from renewable sources. So far, we have reached a reduction in Scopes 1 and 2 of 34% versus the base year.
We are working towards climate-neutrality by 2050 – cutting energy use and emissions by changing our energy mix, developing renewable energy sources and practicing climate-friendly farming.
We are proud that our goals are validated by the Science Based Target initiative (SBTi) to be in line with the Paris Agreement.
In February 2022, Südzucker Group joined the Science Based Target initiative (SBTi). The independent initiative has set an internationally recognised standard for greenhouse gas reduction that contributes to achieving the global goals of the Paris Agreement. Minimizing our CO2-footprint is one essential goal we are striving to achieve as a Group. The validation of our goals confirms these as scientifically well-founded. The reduction targets for our Scope 1 and 2 emissions were confirmed in February 2023 as in line with the level of decarbonisation required to keep the global increase in temperature from rising higher than 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Introducing
Co2-reduced Beet Sugar
Südzucker now offers TÜV-verified CO₂-reduced beet sugar, produced with biogas for a 43% lower carbon footprint compared to conventional sugar from Plattling.
This sustainable option is ideal for reducing Scope 3 emissions in your products.

Get in Touch
Would you like to learn more about our specific sustainability commitments, goals and KPIs? Stay tuned for more publications or contact us directly:
Geert Van Aelst, Head of Sustainability, Südzucker Sugar Division
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