Symeres, a leading contract research, development, and manufacturing organisation (CRDMO), has received its first approval from the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) for its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets. This marks a major milestone in Symeres’ environmental strategy and affirms its commitment to building a more sustainable, low-carbon future.
 
This validation confirms the company’s GHG reduction goals align with the latest climate science and meet the requirements to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius under the Paris Agreement. The SBTi is one of the most important climate action benchmarks for Symeres’ global pharmaceutical clients. 
 
“This isn’t the beginning of our sustainability efforts, but it’s a major milestone in making them visible,” said Jorg Benningshof, ESG lead at Symeres and Head of Scientific Operations.
 
“SBTi's approval for our ambitious GHG reduction targets demonstrates our commitment and helps our customers, who are actively building their own sustainability initiatives, to achieve their GHG reduction goals.”
 
As part of its climate strategy, Symeres has implemented plans to transition to 100% renewable electricity by 2030. In parallel, the company has committed to replacing natural gas-powered systems with electricity-based alternatives when retrofitting facilities. These steps are part of a structured roadmap to reduce the company’s carbon footprint and modernize its infrastructure in alignment with climate goals.
 
Symeres’ emissions fall under Scope 3, Category 1 for clients, classified as purchased goods and services. By committing publicly to SBTi-validated targets, the company supports its clients in meeting their own environmental goals, particularly large pharmaceutical organisations pursuing net-zero strategies.
 
“Symeres’ emissions fall under Scope 3, Category 1 as purchased goods and services for clients. By publicly committing to SBTi-validated targets, Symeres helps its clients, especially large pharmaceutical organizations striving for net-zero achieve their environmental objectives.
 
“Committing to science-based targets strengthens our position as a responsible partner and demonstrates our support for their sustainability initiatives.” added Benningshof.
 
Symeres’ validation comes at a time when stakeholders, including clients, regulators, investors, and employees expect concrete action on ESG issues. The company discloses its sustainability progress through several recognised frameworks, including the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), and Ecovadis.
 
“Our clients are committed to meet ambitious climate targets. Since most of their emissions come from indirect sources, they rely on partners like us to reduce their environmental footprint,” said Mark Verhaar, Project Manager at Symeres. “SBTi validation shows we’re aligned with their goals and taking meaningful action.”