This is currently the most ambitious designation available through the SBTi process. With this important milestone, Oterra reflects its overall commitment to widespread change for the better, recognizing that the well-being of people and the planet are interconnected.

Just two years after the establishment of the company and despite multiple key acquisitions, Oterra submitted targets in April 2023 committing to reduce absolute scopes 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions 42% by 2030 from a 2022 base year, as well as to reduce absolute scope 3 GHG emissions 25% within the same timeframe. After a rigorous review, the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has validated these targets. Oterra, the world’s largest supplier of natural food colors, has once again shown its resolution to responsibly care for the earth and the ecosystems that provide sustenance and well-being.

“I am thrilled about the SBTi validation,” said Mads Dehlsen Winther, chief executive officer at Oterra. “Climate change is the most urgent issue of this generation, and we are committed to doing our part even in a difficult economic environment. I am also proud of the thorough materiality assessment we’ve completed. Without it, we wouldn’t have the solid baseline we need to be able to track future progress towards sustainability objectives efficiently and transparently.”

“Today, we welcome Oterra’s science-based targets consistent with limiting warming to 1.5°C,” said Luiz Amaral, chief executive officer of the Science Based Targets initiative. “The ambition of Oterra’s targets is aligned with the need for the global economy to rapidly cut emissions. Oterra is setting an example for the rest of its industry, and I urge others in its sector to set their own targets too.”

The SBTi drives ambitious climate action in the private sector by enabling organizations to set science-based emissions reduction targets. It is a partnership between CDP, the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).

“SBTi validation is the gold standard for companies serious about addressing climate change. The SBTi requires a transparent commitment, provides a framework to measure climate action, and ensures that commitments are in line with the latest climate science,” says Vera Karmebäck, global sustainability lead at Oterra. “Born with a legacy of responsible agricultural processing and recognizing the need for a healthy planet, I’m proud that we’ve committed to the SBTi’s most ambitious standard for scope 1 and 2 reductions, and that Oterra is as serious about sustainability as we are about contributing to authentic, natural food.”

As a natural ingredient supplier to food and beverage manufacturers, Oterra’s commitment to reduce emissions helps their customers reduce their own value chain emissions. Oterra is proudly committed to several other initiatives including Sedex, the UN Global Compact and the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO). Oterra is also committed to sourcing 100% renewable electricity at its production sites – a commitment they have proudly upheld since the company was established.

The vertical supply chain starts with the farming of specialty crops around the world. Oterra has long been known for upholding ethical practices and being a reliable partner enabling investments in sustainable farming methods. With a consistent alignment to the principle “nature got it right,” Oterra remains committed to delivering natural solutions, preserving the planet’s resources and promoting the well-being of individuals and communities around the world.