Case Study: Singtel-Optus

The Challenge

Singtel-Optus came to us wanting to ensure that it was taking a holistic approach to sustainability. They recognised that their environmental impacts extended well beyond the footprint of their stores and their network. It includes those that arise through their supply chain and the “downstream” use of their products and services by their customers. Before they could start to make further inroads into addressing them, they needed a deep understanding of where the hotspots were both within and outside their direct control.

The Approach

Using a best practice Organisational LCA (O-LCA) approach, Edge delivered a detailed analysis of the company’s social and environmental impacts. The assessment was “cradle to grave”, covering hundreds of suppliers all the way through to the ultimate disposal of the products they sell. With the analysis in hand, Singtel-Optus quickly realised that they were only a few short steps away from being able to put in place a Science Based Target for their emissions. Working in partnership with Ecofys, we developed a detailed business-as-usual trajectory, an ambitious target, and a set of costed mitigation opportunities.

The Result

The Science Based Target initiative (SBTi) is recognised as the gold standard for climate action. It requires organisations to undertake comprehensive and sophisticated analysis for their carbon footprint, and to set targets that align with the commitments in the Paris Agreement. Despite being a very early adopter of the scheme, Singtel-Optus sailed through the SBTi’s rigorous assessment process, ultimately gaining recognition as the first company in the region to set a verified target.

If you’re interested in learning more about developing Science Based Targets for your business, contact Maisie Auld, Head of Carbon & Climate Resilience at Edge Environment.