Sky has received validation of its ambitious 2030 science-based emissions targets with approval from the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

The globally respected SBTi commended Sky’s 1.5°C-aligned targets, currently the most ambitious designation available through the process and in-line with the levels required to meet the Paris agreement goals.

Sky became the first carbon neutral media company in 2006 and last February announced plans to go net zero carbon by 2030 across its entire value chain. Sky’s SBTi approved plan includes cutting emissions created from the use of its products, its suppliers across the world by 50%* and by its business, and investing in natural carbon sinks to absorb the emissions it has not cut yet to reach net zero by 2030.

Dana Strong, Sky Group Chief Executive, said: “Having our ambitious targets approved by the Science Based Targets initiative shows the integrity of our Sky Zero commitment. We will report transparently and show how our carbon reductions are in line with the recommendations of climate scientists. Now is the time for action, not just intention and as a Principal Partner and Media Partner for COP26, we want to drive real change, because the world cannot wait.”

Sky’s 2030 net zero ambition covers its entire value chain. Scopes 1, 2 & 3 which cover the emissions from Sky’s own operations, those of its suppliers and the use of Sky’s tech products in customer homes, are in line with the 1.5°C target to limit global temperature rise. The majority of Sky’s emissions are in Scope 3 and its bold vision to reduce these by 50% in the next decade from a 2018 base year has been praised for its ambition by SBTi.

Since announcing its net zero strategy in February 2020, Sky has achieved a number of significant milestones, including:

Becoming the first broadcaster to commit to carbon neutral productions, working with the albert Consortium, with all Sky Originals from 2019 onward certified CarbonNeutral® in the UK

Starting building Sky Studios Elstree, which will become the most sustainable film and TV
production site in the world when it opens in 2022

Announced the arrival of 151 new PHEV engineer vans that emit 60% less emissions

Become a Principal Partner and Media Partner for COP26

Launched the £2m Sky Zero Footprint Fund campaign

Earlier this year Sky News launched The Daily Climate Show, the first primetime everyday news programme dedicated to climate change and the environment.

*Sky commits to reduce absolute scope 1, 2 and 3 GHG emissions 50% by 2030 from a 2018 base year.

The target boundary includes biogenic emissions and removals from bioenergy feedstocks