Healthcare and life sciences-focused solutions provider Thermo Fisher Scientific announced that it has raised its interim greenhouse gas emissions target, and is now targeting a reduction of more than 50% in Scope 1 and 2 operational emissions by 2030, compared to its prior 30% goal.

Thermo Fisher set its initial Scope 1 and 2 goal in 2019, and the company said that following significant progress setting it was ahead of schedule to meet its goal, enabling the company to set its updated target.

The announcement follows Thermo Fisher’s pledge last year to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050 across its value chain, and the addition of Scope 3 emissions to its climate commitments.

The company highlighted some of the key initiatives it is pursuing in order to achieve its climate goals, including transitioning away from fossil fuels by accelerating the adoption of renewable electricity in its facilities. The company recently announced a deal with Enel for the delivery of renewable energy equal to half of its U.S. electricity consumption. Additionally, the company has committed to engage with 90% of its suppliers to set science-based targets by 2027 in order to address its Scope 3 emissions.

Marc N. Casper, Chairman, President and CEO of Thermo Fisher, said:

“Our net-zero goal reflects Thermo Fisher’s commitment to environmental sustainability across the company. Delivering on interim targets in an accelerated timeframe is a testament to our colleagues and the investments behind our ongoing climate strategy.”

Thermo Fisher said that its new 50% reduction target will fulfill its commitment to the Business Ambition to 1.5˚C campaign and align with the Paris Agreement’s climate strategy to reach reduction targets within the 1.5˚C pathway. Thermo Fisher has also submitted its targets to the Science Based Targets Initiative for approval.