Shein’s climate objectives are now in line with the SBTi Net-Zero Standard, adhering to the most recent climate science and the Paris Agreement’s goal to cap global warming at 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
Shein has set a goal to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions throughout its value chain by 2050. The brand has set its emissions reduction goals for the years 2030 and 2050, using 2023 as its baseline year.
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In the near term, Shein plans to lower absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 42% and Scope 3 GHG emissions by 25% by 2030. Additionally, the company intends to actively source renewable electricity and reach a rate of 100% annually by 2030.
By 2050, Shein aims to reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 90% and Scope 3 GHG emissions by 90% during the same time frame.
Shein sustainability global head Mustan Lalani said: “SBTi’s validation of our net-zero targets marks an important step in Shein’s decarbonisation journey. We are committed to reducing emissions across our value chain and recognise that addressing Scope 3 emissions is a complex but critical part of that effort. As we continue this work, we will build on our momentum and adapt our approach in line with evolving technologies, policies and industry best practices.”
In pursuit of these targets, Shein developed a decarbonisation roadmap with the help of sustainability consultancy Anthesis Group last year.
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By GlobalDataThis plan is intended to steer the company toward achieving its short and long-term emissions reduction goals. It prioritises decarbonisation actions based on their potential to reduce emissions, technical and operational feasibility, and compatibility with Shein’s business strategy and expansion plans.
To address direct operational emissions and purchased electricity (Scope 1 & 2), Shein is focusing on transitioning to renewable energy sources for all directly-managed operations by 2030.
The company is also enhancing energy efficiency and cut consumptions across its directly-managed facilities. It is also phasing out fossil fuels by switching to electric vehicles, and minimising fugitive emissions.
Shein is concentrating on reducing emissions in its two most impactful categories: purchased goods and services, and upstream transportation and distribution. These categories represented approximately 96% of the company’s emissions in 2024.
The retailer aims to minimise virgin material usage in garment and packaging production and endorsing the use of alternatives that deliver lower carbon footprints.
Shein is also transitioning to lower carbon-impact alternatives, supporting suppliers in adopting renewable energy and more efficient manufacturing processes, optimising logistics to reduce transportation distances, improving transport efficiency, and exploring other decarbonisation opportunities.
Shein’s decarbonisation opportunities
Shein is working on improving waste management at its directly-managed facilities through new guidelines for classifying, recycling, and documenting industrial waste.
The company also encourages customers to prolong the lifespan of their products through initiatives like Shein Exchange — a peer-to-peer resale platform — to further reduce product-related emissions.
These measures are part of Shein’s broader strategy to decrease energy consumption and resource use across operations, ultimately aiming to minimise Scope 3 emissions.
