How HH Global's Path to Net Zero Shapes its Supply Chain
HH Global is setting out a clear, supply-chain-focused route to net zero by 2040.
As a global marketing execution and procurement company working with more than 5,800 supplier partners across 64 countries, its climate ambitions are tied to a complex and far-reaching supply chain.
The company's emissions come largely not from its own operations, but from the businesses it works with — and that is exactly where it’s aiming to make the biggest change.
The company's strategy is based on detailed emissions mapping and a willingness to use its global procurement reach to cut carbon at every level of the value chain. At the core of this transition are three key themes: innovation, supplier engagement and carbon accountability.
As Kristian Elgey, Chief Executive Officer of HH Global, puts it: “At HH Global, our success is built on delivering big impact for big ideas. Ideas do not come much bigger than achieving net zero.”
Targeting carbon where it counts
Emissions from energy, travel, freight and waste are all part of the company’s net zero roadmap, but the greatest focus is on strategic sourcing.
In the base year, sourcing accounted for 985,677 tCO₂e — by far the largest share. HH Global is targeting a 729,535 tCO₂e reduction in this area by 2040, driven by three clear actions: cutting the volume of materials purchased, backing suppliers on their own carbon cuts and pushing for low-carbon materials via design and transparency tools.
Supplier influence is the lever HH Global is relying on most. While energy makes up less than 1% of its total emissions, strategic sourcing and freight represent the majority.
Freight alone sits at 39,602 tCO₂e, with emissions expected to drop thanks to optimised logistics, a move away from air freight and support for lower-emission road freight. Its sustainable freight tools are already in use to help clients choose shipping options based on carbon impact.
Travel also features in the net zero plan. Business travel and commuting are targeted for a 67% drop in air travel emissions by 2040. The company is promoting the use of electric vehicles and low-carbon commuting, aiming for a 1,650 tCO₂e annual cut by the target year.
In waste, reductions of more than 37,000 tCO₂e per year are projected. HH Global aims to achieve this through more modular product designs, increasing landfill diversion and working with suppliers focused on recycling and reuse.
Science-based targets
The plan aligns with the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) — a global framework that ensures companies reduce emissions in line with climate science.
- 100% renewable electricity in operations by 2025
- 50% reduction in Scopes 1, 2 and 3 emissions by 2030
- 90% reduction in value chain emissions by 2040
- Neutralisation of the remaining 10% through verified carbon removals
The company has also committed to a deforestation-free supply chain by 2030 and is investing in nature-based solutions, such as biodiversity protection and high-quality carbon removal. These sit within SBTi-approved guidelines to ensure credibility and impact.
Governance is a central element of the plan. An ESG + Risk Committee sits at the top, supported by regional steering groups and task forces. Emissions are tracked quarterly using the platform Emitwise, with external verification carried out by Bureau Veritas to ensure transparency.
Chief Sustainability Officer Kevin Dunckley believes this structure is essential for keeping the company accountable. “At HH Global, our commitment to this goal began five years ago,” he says. “This plan sharpens our focus, enhances transparency and ensures we maintain momentum on this critical path.”
Procurement partners are central to success
The emphasis throughout the plan is on collaboration — especially with supplier partners, who will carry much of the burden when it comes to sourcing and logistics changes.
While HH Global is setting the targets, it knows delivery depends on building alignment across its entire supply network.
“Achieving net zero is not just about organisation intent; it’s about the collective effort of people,” adds Kristian.
“Reaching this goal will require the dedication, creativity and partnership of our colleagues, clients and strategic supplier partners.”
From shifting transport modes to backing suppliers on clean energy and material choices, HH Global is using its procurement influence as a tool for wider change.
The company sees climate action not only as a responsibility but as a structural part of its role in marketing and procurement services.
