S Group’s goal is also to reduce its atmospheric emissions by 90 per cent from the 2015 level by 2030. The previous reduction goal for the same period was 60 per cent, which was reached ahead of schedule.

S Group has already made progress in its climate efforts more quickly than planned, for example, driven by improved energy efficiency and increased wind power generation.

In addition to wind power construction, major investments in solar power have rapidly made S Group the largest producer of solar power in Finland. At the beginning of the year, S Group locations had 50,212 solar panels, and this number is expected to rise above 70,000 by the end of this year.

At present, 100 per cent of the electricity used by S Group is emission-free, and at least 60 per cent of this comes from the Group’s own renewable energy sources. Renewable energy plays an important role in S Group’s climate work, and we will continue our efforts to increase its relative share. In 2030, renewable electricity is set to account for 100 per cent of all energy.

Following the improved energy efficiency and the increased use of emission-free electricity, S Group still has a small volume of CO2 emissions to offset. Under the carbon offset scheme, carbon released into the atmosphere is sequestered, for example, in forests or soil. The efficiency of carbon sequestering is scientifically verified and certified.

S Group will not only aim carbon neutrality, but also over-compensate for its emissions. In practice, this means that S Group sequesters more carbon dioxide than it discharges into the atmosphere.

In recognition of its climate work, S Group achieved the best Leadership level in the international CDP assessment and was awarded the grade A- as the only trade sector operator in Finland. The Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) is an independent global organisation established by NGOs in 2000. Every year, it applies uniform criteria to assess the environmental work of thousands of companies.