Womble Bond Dickinson’s emissions reduction targets approved by SBTi

International law firm Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP (WBD) has had its near-term and net zero emissions reduction targets approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), providing independent validation of the firm's emissions reduction pathway and marking a significant milestone in the continued development of the firm’s responsible business programme.

The approval follows a rigorous assessment process and confirms that WBD's targets are aligned with climate science and the goals of the Paris Agreement. It independently validates WBD’s approach to reducing greenhouse gas emissions across its operations and value chain and provides a robust, evidence-based framework for action, accountability and transparent reporting as the firm continues to progress towards net zero.

Science-based targets give organisations a clearly defined route to reduce emissions in line with the latest climate science. The SBTi is widely recognised as a global standard for assessing and validating corporate emissions reduction targets.

WBD’s approved targets are:

• To reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50% by 2030/31 from a 2024/25 base year
• To reduce Scope 3 emissions by 30% by 2030/31 from a 2024/25 base year, and
• To achieve net zero by 2044/45.

The targets were approved by WBD’s Board following a programme of work, supported by carbon accounting platform Normative, to strengthen the firm’s emissions data and reporting. This included the development of a more complete greenhouse gas inventory and the adoption of robust emissions calculation methodologies aligned with SBTi requirements. The targets will be delivered through collaboration across the business, supported by WBD's Net Zero Working Group, which brings together colleagues from a range of teams and functions to help drive progress, accountability and engagement.

Sally Dallow, Partner Lead for Responsible Business at WBD, said: 

“Having our targets approved by the Science Based Targets initiative provides independent validation of our emissions reduction pathway and strengthens the credibility of our climate commitments. This is not a change in ambition, but a more rigorous and evidence-based approach to how we measure, manage and reduce our emissions. The approval gives us a clear framework for action, supports greater accountability and transparency, and helps ensure we remain focused on delivering meaningful progress towards net zero.”

The SBTi approval forms a key part of WBD's wider approach to responsible business, combining alignment with internationally recognised principles as signatory to the UN Global Compact, with independent validation of key commitments and transparent reporting of progress.

The approval builds on the firm's recent EcoVadis Platinum medal, placing WBD among the top 1% of organisations assessed globally for sustainability performance. WBD will report progress against its targets through its annual Responsible Business report, providing transparency on emissions performance, actions taken and progress towards achieving its long-term net zero ambition.