A string art map of the world is spread out. Four employees are connecting points between countries to represent mutual supply relationships and Scope 3 emissions.

Making sustainability measurable

Our goals with the Science Based Targets initiative

Decisive action for decarbonization

At ZEISS, progress is what drives us forward, while research provides the compass. This applies as much to our technologies as it does to our environmental engagement. After all, sustainability and success in business go hand in hand at a foundation-owned company. Which is why ZEISS has joined the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) to have its climate targets validated.

The initiative operates independently and is one of the most important referees in the world for scientifically sound climate targets. This validation demonstrates that our climate targets have been assessed according to recognized scientific criteria and are in line with a 1.5-degree pathway or the well-below 2-degrees pathway.

After all, if you really want to make a difference, you not only need to know your goals, but you also need to keep checking whether you are still on the right track – with independent, scientific scrutiny. This validation confirms that ZEISS is on the right path.

Doing what's scientifically necessary

This is the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)

Science-based targets are scientifically sound reduction targets. Those who commit to them set reduction targets based on what is scientifically necessary to put the brakes on global warming. The associated initiative, the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), puts these targets to the test scientifically.

It is a voluntary climate initiative, founded as a collaboration between the following institutions: CDP (Carbon Disclosure Project), United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), World Resources Institute (WRI), and World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). With over 11,000 validated companies and financial institutions (as of April 2026), the SBTi is one of the fastest-growing voluntary climate initiatives in the world.

It's all about decarbonization

42%

absolute reduction in Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 2030
25%

absolute reduction in Scope 3 emissions by 2030¹
47%

of relevant Scope 3 emissions by 2030 covered through science-based climate targets set by selected suppliers²

Climate action throughout the value chain

Decarbonization means systematically examining emissions along the entire value chain. The Greenhouse Gas Protocol makes a distinction between three areas, which can be pictured as interlinked flows.

These indicate where emissions arise and where they have an effect. Here, companies distinguish between three levels: Scope 1 covers all emissions that are generated directly by the company itself, Scope 2 takes into account the emissions from purchased energy, and Scope 3 accounts for emissions from upstream and downstream activities.

Scope 1: Emissions from systems and processes at a company's own sites.
Scope 2: Emissions arising from the generation of electricity or district heating which a company purchases from external providers.
Scope 3: Emissions from upstream and downstream value chains, such as from supply chains, transport or the use of products by customers.

For a company whose foundation is based on science and the power of innovation, it is only logical to take a strong scientific approach to climate action as well. Validation by the SBTi assures us and our partners that we are making measurable and effective contributions to decarbonization.

Dr. Nicole Ziegler Head of Sustainability, ZEISS Group

The artist cuts the loose threads off his artwork – a string art map of the world – as the finishing touch.

Art unites

Our commitment depicted by art

The future hangs by these threads: This artwork at the ZEISS headquarter in Oberkochen, Germany is more than a piece of art – it is a world map of responsibility. The string art installation depicts commitment to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

Climate action is a delicate job, which calls for precision. Valentin Elias Renner captures exactly this with his artwork: His structured, clear aesthetic reflects technology as part of our DNA, while remaining personal and approachable.

What makes it so unique? It is a collaborative work. Our employees are the threads which span the entire world. This highlights how we all pull together all around the globe to achieve our Scope 1, 2 and 3 targets. The artwork shows that science-based decarbonization and human connections are intrinsically linked. Together, we are weaving a greener future.

Knowledge as a benchmark

ZEISS focuses on facts. The SBTi independently validates climate targets according to the latest scientific criteria, and ensures that they are measurable and in line with a 1.5-degree pathway or the well-below 2-degrees pathway.

Clear targets

By 2030, ZEISS aims to lower its own emissions (Scope 1 & Scope 2) by 42%. Scope 3 emissions are being reduced by 25%. The climate strategy is thus a fixed and measurable part of the global corporate governance.

Supply chain in focus

Collaboration with partners is of great importance to ZEISS. After all, real progress can only be made by working together. ZEISS supports selected partners in defining and implementing their own climate targets. ZEISS is paying particular attention to collaboration with its partners: Suppliers representing 47% of relevant Scope 3 emissions are expected to set their own science-based climate targets in accordance with the SBTi by 2030.

Sustainability at ZEISS

A Heart for Science

ZEISS' international initiative to encourage young people

ZEISS Sustainability Report

Fiscal year 2024/25

A man is standing in meadow. The surroundings are partially hidden by early morning fog which is illuminated by the rising sun.

Nature protection begins with knowledge

¹
Based on a certain share of emissions from the categories Scope 3.1 Purchased goods, Scope 3.2 Capital goods and Scope 3.11 Use phase.
²
From the categories Scope 3.1 Purchased Goods, Scope 3.2 Capital Goods and Scope 3.4 Transport.