Universal Corporation (NYSE: UVV) has achieved a significant sustainability milestone: its net-zero emissions target has been officially approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), the company announced.

The SBTi approval confirms that Universal’s emissions reduction goals meet the initiative’s rigorous science-based criteria, reinforcing the company’s commitment to responsible environmental stewardship. The approved plan spans the entire value chain and positions Universal among a growing group of companies aligning their operations with global climate objectives.

“Sustainability is good for our business and is good stewardship in the communities in which we operate,” said Preston D. Wigner, Chairman, President, and CEO of Universal Corporation. “The approval of our net-zero target by the SBTi is a testament to our ability to drive positive business results while making a positive commitment to stewardship.”

Emissions Reduction Targets

Universal’s net-zero roadmap includes both near- and long-term emissions reduction goals:

• Net-zero across the value chain by 2050
• Near-term (by 2030, from 2024 baseline):
  • 45% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions (direct and purchased energy)
  • 25% reduction in Scope 3 GHG emissions from purchased goods and services, capital goods, waste, business travel, and product use
• Long-term (by 2050):
  • 90% absolute reduction in Scope 1, 2, and 3 GHG emissions

The company has also committed to eliminating deforestation from its primary deforestation-linked commodities by December 2025.

About the SBTi

The Science Based Targets initiative is a globally recognized standard-setter that enables companies to align greenhouse gas reduction strategies with the goals of the Paris Agreement. Supported by partners including CDP, the UN Global Compact, and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), the SBTi aims to help businesses halve emissions by 2030 and achieve net-zero before 2050.

Universal’s inclusion among SBTi-approved companies underscores its ongoing investment in sustainable innovation and long-term resilience, according to a press release. The company operates a global supply network across more than 30 countries and has increasingly integrated ESG principles into its operational strategy.

For more information, visit www.universalcorp.com.