Meijer GHG Scope 3 Phase 2: Emission Reduction Goal and Supplier Engagement

Abstract

This project was conducted by four University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability graduate students (referred to as the research team) to support Meijer's core values of sustainability by developing a Scope 3 Scope 3 supplier engagement and greenhouse gas (GHG) greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction goal. Scope 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction can often present the most difficult challenge for companies to solve when working to reduce their overall GHG output. Scope 3 emissions are indirect emissions that occur across a company's supply chain. Meijer has established a Scope 1 and 2 GHG reduction goal, but still seeks to complete Scope 3 goal setting for their efforts to be aligned with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The proposed goal is to engage 80% of Meijer's suppliers by 2026 The team also developed a corresponding implementation strategy. Meijer has made significant progress in Scope 1 and Scope 2 goal setting and reductions. This research document outlines the foundational framework the team used to develop a recommended Scope 3 GHG emissions goal and supplier engagement strategy. Being aligned with SBTi will allow Meijer to be in line with global GHG reduction goals that are designed to help humanity and the environment avoid the worst impacts of climate change. To inform the development of the Scope 3 reduction goal and strategy, the SEAS team will conduct comprehensive industry benchmarking research and analysis, in addition to gathering information from Meijer and their supplier network. The project will provide the framework and goals needed for Meijer to have their Scope 3 emissions reduction plan to become SBTi aligned, and enable Meijer to deploy an effective Scope 3 emissions reduction strategy across their supply chain. In order to set the goal, the team first identified emissions hotspots within the value chain: Grocery and FreshFresh. Based on the identified hotspots, two SBT goal setting approaches and timeframes commonly used by similar retailers were used to develop Meijer's Scope 3 goals: Engage with 80% of suppliers by 2026, and identify effective factors to prioritize suppliers for engagement.