GHG Emissions, Industrial, Sourcing Renewables  -  May 20, 2021

Kao to be Net Zero by 2040, Carbon Negative by 2050

Kao Corporation announced May 18 that it is targeting net-zero carbon emissions by 2040 and to be a carbon-negative company by 2050.

The parent company of consumer brands such as Jergens, John Frieda, Kanebo, Laurier, Merries, and Molton Brown set interim goals like reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions 55% from 2017 levels by 2030, accelerating its previous target to reduce these emissions 22%, and reducing product lifecycle emissions 22% in that same timeframe. It will use the internal carbon pricing system adopted in 2006 to promote the use of equipment with low CO2 emissions, as well as increasing its use of renewable energy.

The company hopes to have its new targets certified by the SBTi and intends to join the “Business Ambition for 1.5°C” initiative and RE100. To achieve their carbon targets, Kao plans to source 100% renewable energy by 2030. 

Kao intends for the use of its products to reduce 10 million tons of carbon emissions by 2030 by developing products and services that contribute to the sustainability of society.