KLA, a global leader in semiconductor equipment and services, has announced that the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has approved its near-term targets to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. These targets include a new Scope 3 goal aimed at reducing emissions from the use of KLA products by customers. The company had previously committed to reducing Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 50% by 2030 from a 2021 baseline and achieving 100% renewable electricity usage across its global operations by the same year.
KLA had previously outlined several sustainability goals, including halving its Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 2030 and transitioning to 100% renewable electricity. The new Scope 3 target, which addresses emissions from product usage, represents more than 98% of the company’s GHG footprint. Other companies in the semiconductor industry have also been setting similar targets, reflecting a broader industry trend toward reducing environmental impact.
New Scope 3 Target
KLA’s new Scope 3 goal aims to cut emissions by 52% per billion transistors inspected, measured, or processed by customers using KLA products by 2030, using a 2021 baseline. The goal was formulated through efficiency metrics and product roadmaps, reflecting the company’s dedication to sustainability. Scope 3 emissions, which include the use of sold products, account for the majority of the company’s GHG footprint, emphasizing the significance of this target.
Ahmad Khan, President of Semiconductor Process Control, Electronics, Packaging and Components, and KLA Instruments, noted,
“Our intimate customer collaboration gives KLA unique insights into the challenges facing the industry, and this extends to how we think about measuring ourselves and our collective impact on the environment. The SBTi acceptance of KLA’s proposed science-based targets is exciting for us, and we believe it also helps establish a clear benchmark for others in our industry so that we might accelerate our work toward reduced emissions and better performance.”
Annual Global Impact Report
The SBTi’s validation of KLA’s targets came as the company released its 2023 Global Impact Report, detailing its performance against ESG goals. John McLaughlin, KLA’s Global ESG Leader, expressed optimism about the future, stating,
“In much the same way we approach problem-solving with our customers, our Scope 3 goal is powered by the advances in technology to increase our efficiency, building on KLA’s 48-year heritage of offering leading solutions that can improve product yield and reduce waste across the semiconductor industry. With our near-term targets validated by SBTi, we have a clear metric to guide our sustainability journey, and we look forward to continuing to provide customers with solutions that help them meet their climate goals.”
By setting specific, measurable targets for reducing GHG emissions, KLA aims to lead the semiconductor industry in sustainability efforts. The company’s detailed approach to addressing Scope 3 emissions highlights the importance of collaborative problem-solving and technological advancement in achieving environmental goals. This initiative is part of KLA’s broader commitment to sustainability, which includes transitioning to renewable energy and enhancing efficiency in its operations.
KLA’s focus on reducing Scope 3 emissions underscores the company’s broader commitment to environmental responsibility. By involving customers and leveraging technological advancements, KLA is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable practices within the semiconductor industry. The approval from SBTi provides a clear framework for the company to track its progress and align its operations with global climate goals, ultimately benefiting both the environment and the industry.
