Suntory has published its first climate transition plan, setting out how the Japanese drinks group intends to reduce emissions across its operations and supply chain while shielding its business from rising climate risks.
The company says it reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 19% between 2019 and 2025. It is now targeting a 30% reduction in absolute Scope 1, Scope 2 and Scope 3 emissions by 2030 against the 2019 baseline, followed by a 90% cut by 2050.
Packaging and materials in focus
Packaging and raw materials have been identified as the main contributors to the group's footprint. Suntory says emissions linked to packaging fell by 38% between 2019 and 2025, while those from raw materials declined by 12% over the same period.
Those reductions have not removed the pressure on the packaging chain. Emissions associated with co-manufactured finished products rose by 26%, the company says, highlighting how much of the transition depends on suppliers and contract manufacturing partners.
The plan gives particular weight to packaging reform. Measures include using less material, increasing recycled content and redesigning containers. Suntory also wants all primary polyethylene terephthalate (PET) packaging to be either made from 100% recycled material or produced without fossil fuels.
The figures point to a split challenge. Suntory can influence packaging through material reduction, recycled content and container redesign, but a rise in emissions from co-manufactured finished products shows that contract partners and suppliers also shape the trajectory. The plan therefore treats packaging reform and supplier engagement as connected parts of the same value-chain effort.
Supplier action and spending
Suntory says it has engaged suppliers that represent more than half of its Scope 3 emissions. Further progress is expected to rely on changes in production methods, energy consumption and material choices across the value chain.
The 2030 target is measured in absolute terms across Scope 1, Scope 2 and Scope 3, rather than as an intensity ratio. The 2019 baseline applies to both the 2030 and 2050 goals.
The group estimates it will spend €185.4m (£156m) on climate-related operating costs between 2027 and 2030. Packaging is expected to account for the bulk of that spending.
According to the company's sustainability material, the targets form part of a broader commitment to net-zero emissions across the value chain by 2050. The plan sets out intended reductions and areas of action; the 2030 and 2050 goals remain forward-looking.