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Sustainability

Building a Sustainable Future

As part of our leadership in light and sustainable construction, we have set ambitious targets for reducing carbon emissions in North America, aligned with Saint-Gobain's global pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. 

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Decarbonizing the Built Environment

The building sector accounts for nearly 40% of carbon emissions and nearly 50% of the consumption of natural resources. The industry stands at a crossroads of several pressing challenges, such as the dwindling availability of resources, climate change, the energy crisis, rapid urbanization and population growth. 

 

We have no choice but to tackle these challenges head-on, and we need to act quickly. To achieve a more sustainable future, we must adopt a new approach to manufacturing and construction, and our mission is clear: to communicate, create and accelerate science-based efforts to push boundaries and decarbonize the built environment. 

Our Commitments

Aligned with the UN Global Compact’s "Business Ambition for 1.5°C" pledge, we have committed to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. To achieve this goal, we have set 2030 targets, which have been validated by the Science Based Targets (SBT) Initiative. They include: 

33% reduction in scope 1 and 2 emissions in absolute terms compared to a 2017 baseline 

16% reduction in scope 3 emissions compared to 2017 

50% reduction in water withdrawal by 2030 (compared to 2017), and 0 water discharge in areas with extremely high-water risk 

Reduce production waste by 80% and decrease the use of virgin raw materials by 30% 

100% recycled packaging with 30% recycled or biosourced content by 2030 (compared to 2017) 

Complete Life Cycle Assessments for all Saint-Gobain products and systems 

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How We Do It

We are measuring the carbon impact of our activities, and taking action to build better. This work includes:  emitting less carbon, redesigning formulations, modernizing processes, manufacturing lighter products, optimizing logistics, and creating circular business practices.

Decarbonizing Construction 
Shifting towards homes, offices, schools and hotels that emit less carbon throughout their lifecycle, from materials and industrial processes through use and demolition. 
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Building Resiliency 
Designing innovative materials and driving smarter construction that withstands weather extremes and extends the life of our buildings 
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Circularity is the Solution 
Reimagining the design and construction to better manage our resources through circular business practices: waste collection, repurposing materials, and recycling.  
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Transparency and Performance 
Dedicated to healthy environments that take care of people, we are leading in the breadth of our portfolio with HPDs and EPDs.
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What are Scope 1, 2 and 3 Emissions

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Scope 1

Greenhouse gas emissions generated directly by our owned and controlled assets, including manufacturing operations and vehicles. 

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Scope 2

Indirect emissions generated during the production of energy that we purchase, which will be reduced through increasing use of renewable energy generated by sun and wind. 

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Scope 3

All indirect emissions –  not already included in scope 2 – that occur in our value chain, both upstream and downstream. 

How Are We Working to Reduce Emissions? 

Scope 1

Montreal Electrification

Partnering with Hydro-Quebec, Saint-Gobain is electrifying operations at its Montreal gypsum plant. When complete, it will be the largest net-zero gypsum board facility (Scopes 1 and 2) in the world.

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Scope 2

Virtual Power Purchase Agreements (VPPAs) 

Since 2020, Saint-Gobain North America has signed three VPPAs for the purchase of wind and solar power for its sites, offsetting Scope 2 emissions from electricity by 90,000 metric tons per year.  

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Scope 3

Vendor Innovation Program

Through our Vendor Innovation Program, we are working with our suppliers early to look at opportunities where they can produce their products using a lower carbon footprint.  

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Our Sustainability Partners

Discover More About Saint-Gobain's Sustainability

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Journey to 2030

Saint-Gobain North America is working towards net-zero carbon by 2050. First, we have milestones to achieve by 2030. 

Our Journey
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Sustainable Construction Observatory

The Sustainable Construction Observatory takes the pulse of sustainable construction in the world and publishes the Sustainable Construction Barometer, with key learnings and insights in the industry.

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Constructing a Sustainable Future

Discover achievements, best practices and innovations that will highlight the decarbonization of building materials and the construction sector in this Saint-Gobain webzine.

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