Corteva, Inc. is joining leaders in climate action to become a more carbon-efficient business. In its inaugural 2020 Sustainability Report, the company has detailed a commitment to set science-based targets for its greenhouse gas emission reductions. The report also highlights the company’s 2030 goals and provides updates on its commitments to enrich lives, increase the resilience of the global food system, and protect the planet, say Corteva officials. 

"We recognize that climate change affects us all. We are taking action that is right for our business and farmers,” said Jim Collins, chief executive officer, Corteva Agriscience, in a news release. “Our commitment signals that we intend to do our part on this important issue. By addressing this global challenge today, we are fortifying our ability to grow food, grow progress and build a sustainable industry that will help humanity thrive for generations to come.”

Corteva’s sustainability report is being released one year after the company announced 14 ten-year commitments to advance sustainability for farmers and for the land, in communities and in the company’s operations. 

“Last year, Corteva took a bold step in announcing sustainability goals that span the globe and are embedded across our entire business,” said Anne L. Alonzo, senior vice president,  external affairs and chief sustainability officer, Corteva Agriscience. “This report provides an update on how we’re working to achieve them through our innovative products, collaborations, and efforts of our 21,000 employees worldwide.” 

Corteva Agriscience’s Enterprise Climate Strategy Goal 
Delivering on the company’s 2020 pledge to establish a climate strategy goal, Corteva has committed to set science-based targets for its greenhouse gas emissions reductions. These 2030 targets are aligned with Corteva’s scale and global impact – joining the effort to limit global warming to 1.5°C. above pre-industrial levels. 
The company’s commitments include: 
– 65% intensity reduction for scope 1 and 2 emissions 

This number reflects emissions relative to the intensity of Corteva’s business activities, a figure derived from projected revenue, company officials say. An intensity metric is indexed relative to company growth. 

– 20% intensity reduction for scope 3 emissions 

While this is a new commitment, the company’s efforts to address climate issues are not new, say company officials. Corteva and its founding companies have a strong history of advancing climate initiatives, while also providing digital tools, seed technology, and crop protection products to help farmers reduce emissions in their operations, say company officials. 

Corteva Agriscience intends to achieve this goal through a variety of initiatives, including taking steps to reduce energy usage, focus efforts in R&D, increase production efficiencies, and transition to renewable energy sources. As a next step, Corteva will validate these targets with the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi). 

Corteva’s 2020 Sustainability Report Released 
Along with the climate strategy announcement, Corteva’s inaugural 2020 Sustainability Report highlights the company’s sustainability goals and efforts toward achieving them. It reflects the work and contributions of Corteva employees to improve farmers’ livelihoods and operations while conserving resources and sustaining the land, strengthen communities and increase sustainability within the company’s operations – ensuring that farmers and the agriculture industry can produce a healthy and affordable food supply for the global population, say Corteva officials.