SBTi validation for Sir Robert McAlpine’s 2045 net zero target

Sir Robert McAlpine has had its net zero 2045 target successfully validated by the SBTi - the Science Based Targets initiative.

The validation means it is one of the first major construction and infrastructure companies in the UK to have its targets approved as net zero by the SBTi. 

The announcement follows the completion of a rigorous assessment of Sir Robert McAlpine’s near and long-term emission reduction targets against the SBTi’s Corporate Net-Zero standard. 

The standard provides a clear, consistent and science-based definition of net zero, allowing companies to align their near and long-term emission reduction targets with the Paris Agreement’s goal of keeping planetary warming to 1.5°C.

Crucially, it requires the inclusion of all material sources of emissions, including indirect Scope 3 emissions, and prioritises deep emission reductions of 90-95% by no later than 2050. Residual emissions must be permanently neutralised in line with SBTi criteria before reaching net zero.

Sir Robert McAlpine has committed to reducing absolute scope 1, 2 and 3 GHG(Greenhouse Gas) emissions from purchased goods and services 42% by 2030 and 90% by 2045 from a 2020 base year, building towards an overall commitment to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions across the value chain by 2045.

The company has developed a net zero action plan to ensure immediate and sustained action is taken towards its approved targets. The action plan focuses on four key areas: process, systems and data, emission reduction initiatives, people and collaboration, and innovation. 

It will support clients and supply chain partners to achieve their own net zero ambitions by leveraging the contractor's growing expertise and collaborating on innovative low and zero carbon solutions.

Simon Leek, company carbon manager at Sir Robert McAlpine, said: “In the absence of policy and regulation, voluntary standards such as the SBTi’s Net-Zero standard are essential for providing a common, transparent, and science-based approach to net zero, and building credibility within the construction industry. 

“The standard has enabled us to set ambitious and credible science-based net zero targets that align to our own carbon principles of: 'Don’t delay', 'Be brave', 'Collaborate', 'Reduce' and 'Transparency'. Delivering our net zero plan will not be easy, but it’s increasingly clear that the industry no longer has the luxury of failure.”

Paul Hamer, chief executive at Sir Robert McAlpine, added: “There is no one silver bullet to this issue, and whilst our targets are ambitious and challenging, they reflect the scale of the climate emergency that we all face and have a responsibility to address. 

“Engagement and collaboration across the sector will be key to deliver this. Everyone will have a part to play. Our net zero plan has been developed to ensure that we take immediate and sustained action as we drive forward to our 2045 goal. 

“Our intent is to make a positive impact on communities and the environment in which we operate, as we construct a better world for future generations.”