In a monumental stride toward environmental sustainability, Leonardo, a global leader in aerospace, defence, and security, has bolstered its commitment to decarbonisation and climate action. The company recently unveiled ambitious emission reduction targets, solidifying its position at the forefront of eco-conscious aviation practices. With these targets, Leonardo sets a new benchmark for the industry, emphasising a comprehensive approach that involves its entire value chain.
The cornerstone of Leonardo’s sustainability endeavour lies in its newly approved targets by the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi). These targets, integrated within the company’s Industrial Plan unveiled in March 2024, outline a bold roadmap towards significant emission reductions across various facets of its operations. By 2030, Leonardo aims to abate 53% of direct and indirect emissions attributable to its operations and energy consumption, compared to 2020 levels.
Crucially, Leonardo is not acting alone in this endeavour. Recognising the interconnectedness of its operations, the company is actively engaging its suppliers. By 2028, Leonardo aims to have 58% of its suppliers commit to science-based decarbonisation targets, further amplifying the ripple effect of sustainability across its value chain.
Another pivotal aspect of Leonardo’s commitment is its ambition to reduce CO2e emissions per flight hour equivalent by 52% by 2030, compared to 2020 levels. These targets, endorsed by SBTi, signify a resolute effort to mitigate the environmental impact of its operations while aligning with the ambitious goals of the Paris Agreement.
SBTi’s validation of Leonardo’s targets underscores their efficacy in combating climate change. By deeming Leonardo’s Scope 1 and 2 targets adequate to limit global warming to 1.5°C, SBTi recognises the company’s proactive stance in addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time.
Leonardo’s commitment to sustainability transcends mere rhetoric; it permeates every facet of its business strategy. By collaborating with suppliers and leveraging innovative technologies, Leonardo aims to reduce Scope 3 emissions both upstream and downstream. Additionally, the company is dedicated to mitigating its customers’ carbon footprint arising from product usage, further extending its positive environmental impact.
Roberto Cingolani, CEO and GM of Leonardo, expressed profound satisfaction with the recognition bestowed upon the company’s climate strategy. He emphasised the importance of the newly launched Sustainability Plan, an integral component of the 24-28 Industrial Plan, in realising Leonardo’s ambitious targets. Cingolani’s sentiments underscore Leonardo’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and its pivotal role in steering the aviation industry towards a sustainable future.
As Leonardo accelerates its decarbonisation efforts, it not only sets a precedent for the aerospace sector but also exemplifies the transformative power of corporate responsibility. By embracing sustainability as a core value, Leonardo charts a course towards a cleaner, greener future for aviation—one that is characterised by innovation, collaboration, and environmental stewardship.
