B2B travel platform American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT) announced a series of interim and long-term climate goals, including a commitment to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions across its value chain by 2050.

The company also announced that its near- and long-term climate goals have been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), with approval of the near-term emissions reduction target, and validation of conformance with the SBTi Corporate Net Zero Standard.

The announcement follows a commitment set by Amex GBT in 2021 to set science-based targets following the SBTi methodology to establish emissions reduction goals for its global operations and supply chain. In its 2023 ESG report, the company stated that it had completed a full emissions assessment across Scopes 1, 2 and 3 emissions, and that it was working towards its commitment to develop and submit a target for SBTi validation.

Amex GBT’s new interim goals include 2030 targets to reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 80%, and Scope 3 emissions from purchased goods and services, capital goods, fuel and energy related activities, upstream transportation and distribution, waste generated in operations, business travel and employee commuting by 30%, on a 2019 basis.

The company also committed to engage 67% of its airline suppliers by emissions, covering use of sold products, to set science-based targets by 2028.

Long-term, Amex GBT committed to reduce absolute Scope 1, 2, and 3 GHG emissions by 90% by 2050, on a 2019 basis.

Paul Abbott, CEO of Amex GBT, said:

“Travel drives economic and social progress around the world. To keep enjoying these benefits we must urgently address our environmental responsibilities. We will continue to lead the industry, working with our customers and partners to accelerate progress and meet our carbon reduction targets.”