GHG Emissions, Industrial, Sourcing Renewables  -  April 26, 2021

Merck Plans Carbon Neutrality in Operations by 2025, Signs Three VPPAs

Medical company Merck (also known as MSD) has announced its new environmental goals: to eliminate Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions from its operations by 2025 and reduce 30% of its Scope 3 value chain emissions by 2030. This pledge also accelerates its original goal - to use 100% renewable energy by 2040 - by 15 years.

Noting that their targets are aligned with science and the Paris Climate Agreement, Merk’s efforts will include adhering to sustainable building standards, increasing energy efficiency, and replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy. To work towards this last goal, Merck has signed three new virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs) with solar and wind farms in Texas and Spain. These will deliver 145 MW of clean energy, offsetting 35% of Merck’s Scope 2 emissions. A portfolio of carbon credits, including carbon removals, will help the company offset its Scope 1 emissions each year.

“Global efforts to combat climate change are essential to the health and sustainability of our planet,” said Robert Davis, president of Merck, in a statement. “Our new climate action goals reflect our ongoing commitment to operating responsibly and will help us drive long-term sustainability for our business, society and for the patients and communities we serve.”

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