The GHG emission targets were approved by the Executive Board together with the Sustainability Plan 2025 as a fundamental commitment. These greenhouse gas reduction targets based on climate scenarios are science-based and were developed with external experts in line with the 1.5 degree target in the Paris Climate Agreement on the basis of the requirements of the SBTi. However, they have not yet been externally verified. The base year of 2019 was selected due to the COVID pandemic, as our business in that year was not affected by significant external factors. By tracking our emissions in the material Scope 1, 2 and 3 categories described above on a quarterly basis in accordance with the GHG Protocol, we ensure that our targets are consistent with the limits of our greenhouse gas inventory while measuring the effectiveness of our decarbonization levers (actions). Decarbonization requires significant technological advancements, particularly in construction materials as well as machinery and equipment. We are very much dependent on our suppliers in this respect and will be working with them to help drive these advancements forward. Due to the strong interactions and cross-scope effects between the various decarbonization levers, the individual reduction contributions cannot be precisely estimated. The current status with regard to the targets directly reflects the progress of our transition plan.

Up to the end of the reporting year, we had already reduced absolute Scope 1 emissions by 159,493 metric tons compared to 2019, our base year, corresponding to a 43% reduction. Taking into account our increased sales, we have reduced Scope 1 intensity by no less than 52% compared to 2019. We achieved this significant reduction through extensive project-level and Group-wide initiatives. Action taken to increase the efficiency of machinery, equipment, and processes has led to significant energy savings. We have also cut emissions by phasing in the use of alternative fuels (such as HVO). Switching from fossil fueled to electric (and in some cases hybrid) vehicles and equipment has also reduced emissions. This means we are well on track and we expect to further reduce emissions and achieve our targets in the years ahead.