eBay targets net-zero emissions by 2045 with new climate plan

• eBay has already cut operational emissions by 92% from 2019 levels and reduced transportation emissions by 21% toward a 2030 goal of 27.5%
• Shipping represents 84% of eBay's Scope 3 emissions, making it the company's biggest decarbonization challenge
• The company plans to expand renewable energy adoption, implement low-carbon shipping innovations, and encourage resale and reuse among users to reduce emissions and waste

eBay Announces Net-Zero Emissions Target by 2045

Key Highlights:

E-commerce platform eBay unveiled its first climate transition plan on January 14, targeting net-zero emissions by 2045. The plan has been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), an independent standard-setting body.

Progress and Achievements:

• eBay has reduced operational emissions by 92% from 2019 levels
• Transportation emissions cut by 21%, working toward a 2030 target of 27.5% reduction
• Already achieved 100% renewable electricity for all facilities in 2024, one year ahead of its 2025 goal
• Plan aligns with Paris Agreement objective of limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels

Key Challenges:

Shipping represents eBay's largest emissions hurdle, accounting for 84% of its Scope 3 (value chain) emissions. Chief Sustainability Officer Renee Morin indicated the company is addressing this through creative solutions, including collaborating with carriers on local pickup options and shifting from air to truck transportation with vendors.

Future Strategy:

eBay plans to expand renewable energy adoption, scale low-carbon shipping innovations, and encourage users to choose resale and reuse options to reduce emissions and waste across its platform.

Industry Context:

The announcement positions eBay alongside e-commerce peers in climate commitments. Amazon.com pledged carbon neutrality in 2019, while China's Alibaba Group has also committed to achieving carbon neutrality, though specific target dates weren't provided in this article.

The initiative demonstrates growing corporate accountability in the e-commerce sector as environmental concerns intensify among investors and consumers.