Global automotive Seating and E-Systems supplier Lear Corporation announced today a series of new sustainability goals, including a target to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

Ray Scott, Lear President and CEO, said:

“Setting the goal for Lear to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 is a significant next step that builds on actions already underway at our company. We believe designing and manufacturing products with world-class innovation and quality for our customers is compatible with protecting the environment. These efforts go hand in hand.”

Lear’s new environmental goals include plans to use 100% renewable energy at the company’s manufacturing facilities by 2030, and reduce carbon emissions by 50% by that time. According to the company, the timeframes align with the U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change to limit global warming, based on 2019 data.

On the path to net zero emissions, Lear stated that it will increase renewable energy use, improve energy efficiency at facilities, expand engineering efforts for vehicle electrification and lighter weight products, and heighten sustainability requirements for its suppliers. The company noted the challenges involved in achieving its goal, including the availability of renewable energy, changing directives from local governments, unpredictable financial markets and long-term support from consumers for zero- or low-emission solutions.

Scott said:

“To achieve these goals, we will partner with our customers, suppliers and policymakers to focus on further advancing technologies that reduce carbon emissions. We will also encourage our employees to contribute to creating a cleaner environment, not only while they are at work, but while they are at home, too.”