Williams-Sonoma
At a Glance
Industry
Retail and Apparel
Project Types
Goals/Targets, Sustainability and Energy Management Strategy
Year
2018
Location
San Francisco, CA
Summary
Mikaela Bradbury developed a climate strategy for Williams-Sonoma, and looked into the feasibility of setting Science-Based Targets.
Goals
Multi-channel retailer Williams-Sonoma, Inc. holds some of the best known home furnishings brands in the U.S. They enlisted EDF Climate Corps fellow Mikaela Bradbury to develop an energy and climate strategy that integrated existing corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals with industry best practices.
Solutions
Mikaela developed a comprehensive overview of the business drivers and benefits of setting Science-Based Targets as well as a roadmap for Scope 1, 2 and 3 target-setting and implementation. This included:
- Analysis of the potential costs and savings associated with company-wide energy efficiency investments
- Evaluation of renewable energy procurement options
- Recommendations for supplier engagement and supply chain mitigation
Ultimately, Mikaela presented a set of modular solutions that would allow for phased integration and maximize internal stakeholder alignment.
Potential Impact
Bradbury’s business case and roadmap will assist key internal stakeholders and facility managers in moving forward with development of a climate strategy. The roadmap will also serve as a guide for joining the Science-based Target Initiative, an advocacy initiative that establishes the framework for corporate climate action in line with the Paris Agreement’s 2-degree Celsius goals.
The proposed energy efficiency investments have the potential to save over $5 million a year in energy costs and reduce 10 million kg CO2e emissions. Supplier engagement strategies have the potential to drive short- and long-term business and environmental benefits, including enhanced supply chain resilience, emissions reductions, and new marketing opportunities across brands.