Westcon-Comstor halves emissions & hits 50% renewables mark

Westcon-Comstor has reported progress in reducing carbon emissions and increasing its use of renewable energy, as detailed in its latest Responsible Business report.

The distribution company now sources 50% of its electricity globally from renewable sources, an increase from 42% in the prior year. This shift brings Westcon-Comstor closer to its stated aim of achieving 100% renewable electricity usage by 2030. The transition to full renewable energy sourcing in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand has already been completed according to the report.

The report also outlines reductions in carbon emissions that Westcon-Comstor either owns or controls, known as Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions. Scope 1 emissions have fallen by 8%, while Scope 2 emissions have decreased by 29% year-on-year. Since the 2022 financial year, these emissions have been reduced by a total of 24%, placing the company nearly halfway towards its 2030 target of a 50% reduction.

In 2023, Westcon-Comstor received validation for its 2050 net-zero ambition and other sustainability targets from the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The company states it was the first major global technology distributor to obtain this recognition.

Westcon-Comstor's supply chain engagement strategy has also met a significant target, with 80% of its supply chain partners now having set science-based emission reduction goals. This achievement was delivered on time, aligning with the company's stated objectives.

The Responsible Business report details Westcon-Comstor's activity and results across three key areas – people, planet, and communities – for the company's financial year 2025. During the reporting period, Westcon-Comstor voluntarily aligned its approach to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and conducted a double materiality assessment using a methodology based on the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS).

The company has updated its calculation approach for emissions it does not directly own or control, known as Scope 3 emissions. Including a wider range of supplier-specific data in its analysis has resulted in a recorded 10% increase in Scope 3 emissions compared to the previous financial year.

Westcon-Comstor has stated it plans to continue to work with both vendors and partners throughout the IT channel to develop and implement initiatives focused on reducing Scope 3 emissions in the future.

"Our latest Responsible Business report shows that we're making real progress in cutting Scope 1 and 2 emissions and expanding our use of renewables," said Kevin Brzezinski, Chief Sustainability Officer at Westcon-Comstor. "Challenges remain, but we're committed to leading by example and reducing our carbon footprint across operations and supply chains as we collaborate with partners and vendors to drive sustainability across the IT channel."