Constellation’s Net-Zero Plan Explained

Reaching net-zero emissions is a crucial step towards mitigating climate change. With networks running across the globe, corporate responsibility within the cold storage sector is vital to making that milestone a reality. 

Constellation Cold Logistics is the 2nd largest cold storage provider in Europe and the 7th largest worldwide. Our size and the scale of our network gives us an additional responsibility to lead in both the ambition of our pledges, and in our transparency as we make that transition. 

In the spirit of that transparency, below is a detailed look at our comprehensive plan to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

Our Net-Zero Journey

Constellation is already on the path to net-zero, with significant milestones and ongoing initiatives that reflect our commitment to tackling climate change.

Transition to Eco-Friendly Refrigerants

We have proactively moved away from F-gas-based refrigerant systems at many of our sites, opting for more environmentally friendly alternatives. This transition is in advance of the regulation changes set for 2030, demonstrating our proactive approach to environmental stewardship.

Renewable Energy Generation

In 2023 alone, we generated approximately 5.8 GWh of solar energy and installed over 6 MW of solar capacity across the UK, Norway, Netherlands, and Belgium. This brings our total group solar capacity to 12.4 MW, significantly reducing our reliance on non-renewable energy sources.

Biofuel Deliveries in the Nordics

We offer our customers in the Nordics the option to have their deliveries run on biofuels, thereby reducing emissions and supporting cleaner transportation solutions.

Energy Efficiency Enhancements

We have implemented various energy efficiency measures across our sites. These include installing LED lighting, utilising best-in-class building insulation, installing rapid-roll doors, and upgrading to newer, more efficient refrigeration systems. For example, at our Val-de-Meuse site, we invested €500k to reduce the energy consumption of refrigeration systems by 40%.

The Path to 2050

To ensure we reach our 2050 net-zero goal, we have formalised a decarbonization plan that outlines our strategic approach.

Setting Near-Term Targets

We are committed to reducing our absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 54.6% by 2033 from a 2023 base year. We are also committed to reducing our absolute Scope 3 emissions by 32.5% by 2033 from a 2023 base year.

Achieving Scope 1 and 2 Targets

These targets will be met by increasing site energy efficiency, further expanding our renewable energy generation, and procuring a greater share of renewable energy from the grid. This will be achieved via power purchase agreements, green electricity contracts, or the purchase of energy attribute certificates (EACs). 

Additional long-term measures include improving efficiency, increasing biofuel use, increasing fuel efficiency in new HGVs, using EV company cars and onsite batteries, building up an EV transport fleet, the use of alternative fuels and onboard vehicle energy generation. Increasing our temperature set point from -18C to -15C would provide further decarbonisation benefit, but has not been factored into our calculations as this is dependent on customer and industry change.

Meeting Scope 3 Targets

For our Scope 3 emissions, we plan to improve data quality and forecasting, enhance our scrutiny of our suppliers, design and deliver low-carbon buildings and implement further organisational policy improvements. This includes conducting supplier surveys, engaging with suppliers, establishing more stringent supplier policies/relationships and enhancing data collection.

By setting clear, science-based targets and detailing the steps to achieve them, Constellation aims to lead by example. We are dedicated to a transparent journey towards net-zero, ensuring accountability and inspiring confidence among our stakeholders and clients. Together, we can create a more sustainable future.