WJ Group, has had its net zero targets validated by the Science Based Target’s Initiative (SBTi).

The SBTi exists to help businesses create clearly defined carbon reduction objectives and strategies in line with the Paris Agreement to limit global warming by 1.5°C, while using the latest guidance provided by climate scientists to reduce carbon emissions.

Alongside its overall target of reaching net zero by 2042, WJ Group has pledged to achieve a variety of long- and short-term goals to reduce its Scope 1/2/3 emissions in line with the SBTi’s standards. This includes reducing Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by a minimum of 90% by 2032. Within the same timeframe, WJ Group will also reduce the amount of carbon emitted within its supply chain (Scope 3) by 32.4%.

The road marking specialist has committed to maintaining this 90% reduction of Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions from 2032 through to 2042. During this 10-year period, it will also aim to further cut the carbon outputs of its supply chain by 90% against its 2022 baseline.

Although these targets have only recently been validated, WJ Group has already made multiple changes to reduce its carbon emissions. To help lower the greenhouse gases emitted within its supply chain, the business reformulated its own road marking products using a biogenic binder which in turn has saved an average of more than 80% across the range, equalling over 20,000tCO2e per year.

Alongside this, it launched a Driver Behaviour Scheme targeted at improving safety and sustainability that in the first year saw a 40% reduction in road incidents as well as a 7.75% decrease in emissions. This endeavour was recognised for its potential with it receiving a Green World Award.

Furthermore, to improve operational efficiency and lower emission, many of WJ’s vehicles have been redesigned to serve multiple functions requiring only 1 vehicle rather than 2 to carry out different road maintenance schemes. Additionally, the business uses solar powered generators to power its CCTV cameras on highway maintenance projects.

Mai Vasudevan, Group Sustainability Advisor at WJ Group said: “Reducing our carbon footprint has been a significant goal for WJ Group for many years, so having this external validation showcases the strength of our targets and plans.”