Daikin’s net zero target approved by global climate initiative

JAPAN – Daikin Industries, Ltd. has secured approval from the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) for its greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets, confirming them as official “Net Zero Targets.”

The SBTi is a global partnership formed in 2015 by the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), the United Nations Global Compact, the World Resources Institute, and the World Wide Fund for Nature.

It helps companies align their climate strategies with the Paris Agreement, which seeks to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

“Daikin has obtained certification for its near-term targets from SBTi in February 2024. This year, the company has also received certification for its GHG emissions reduction targets for FY2050 as ‘Net Zero Targets,’” the company said in a statement.

Globally, more than 10,000 companies have committed to SBTi, with 7,502 firms having validated targets and 1,666 achieving Net Zero certification. Daikin now joins international leaders such as BMW Group, Bayer AG, and Lufthansa in setting verified long-term goals.

Daikin’s climate roadmap

Daikin has committed to cut direct emissions by 46.2 percent by fiscal 2031 compared to 2020 levels, while reducing emissions across its supply chain by 55 percent in the same period. By 2050, the company aims to achieve net zero across its value chain.

The company said these efforts are guided by its “Environment Vision 2050,” which seeks to balance global growth with responsibility to the climate.

“Daikin will continue to provide comfortable air environments worldwide and contribute to the realization of a decarbonized society,” the statement added.

As the only manufacturer of both air conditioners and refrigerants, Daikin says it is uniquely positioned to cut emissions not only within its factories but also across the lifecycle of its products.

Impact in Africa’s food supply chain

Beyond corporate targets, Daikin is expanding its role in Africa’s agriculture and food logistics sector. Through its Middle East and Africa division, the company provides cooling technology to reduce post-harvest losses, boost export readiness, and improve energy efficiency in the food supply chain.

Daikin’s inverter technology helps save up to 50 percent in energy use, while its reliance on natural refrigerants supports low-carbon operations.

The company also supports vertical and rooftop farming through climate control systems and IoT-enabled monitoring tools.

Local partnerships have become another focus area. The company runs an assembly plant in Nigeria, supports technical training in Kenya and Tanzania, and works with vocational schools to grow local expertise in sustainable refrigeration.

By integrating its global climate commitments with regional initiatives, Daikin aims to reduce emissions while supporting food security in Africa. The dual focus highlights how corporate climate action can deliver both environmental and economic gains.

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