CATL Achieves Carbon Neutrality in Core Operations by 2025 and Sets 2035 Value Chain Goal

CATL Achieves Carbon Neutrality by 2025

In a significant announcement, Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL) has declared that it has successfully reached its target of carbon neutrality in its core operations by the year 2025. This milestone is critical in CATL's strategy to establish itself as a leader in sustainable battery manufacturing. As part of this ambitious goal, all 20 of its battery production plants have been certified as being carbon neutral, showcasing the company's commitment to environmental responsibility.

Launch Event Highlights

On August 17, 2026, CATL hosted a launch event in Ningde, where company leaders shared plans to achieve carbon neutrality across the entire value chain by 2035. Robin Zeng, Chairman and CEO of CATL, emphasized that achieving carbon neutrality is no longer just a corporate responsibility but also a vital growth driver for the company. He urged global partners to collaborate in accelerating the decarbonization of the battery industry.

During the event, CATL introduced six key zero-carbon initiatives that will support this effort. The company also revealed that starting in 2027, suppliers will need to provide data on their carbon footprint—this move is intended to encourage a shift towards lower emissions in the supply chain.

The Path to Total Carbon Neutrality

Achieving this goal for core operations has been an ongoing journey since CATL's first battery factory opened in 2012. The company has methodically explored and validated every aspect of carbon-zero manufacturing. Jiang Li, the company's Vice President and Head of Corporate Sustainable Development, noted that reliable data and systematic execution are essential in establishing effective carbon neutrality.

To support these efforts, CATL developed the Carbon Chain Management System (CCMS) in 2022, designed to monitor and calculate carbon emissions throughout its production processes. This system has already gathered extensive data on emissions from key suppliers, totaling more than 1,000 product models and raw materials, which will be crucial for further improvements in sustainability practices.

By 2025, CATL aims for carbon-neutral electricity to account for 100% of its operational energy consumption, building on significant advancements illustrated by a 28% reduction in energy consumption per product compared to 2022. The company also reduced its carbon intensity by nearly 77%, resulting in an estimated cumulative reduction of over 10 million tons of CO₂ equivalent from 2023 to 2025.

Moving Towards 2035: A Comprehensive Strategy

Recognizing that over 80% of carbon emissions in its product lifecycle stem from the supply chain, CATL is focused on enhancing the sustainability of its entire value chain. Bryan Huang, Head of Procurement at CATL, detailed strategies for driving decarbonization in critical areas such as material innovation, sustainable logistics, and battery recycling. The company also emphasizes collaboration throughout the supply chain to ensure these objectives are met.

CATL's initiatives include developing eco-friendly materials and low-emission processes, aiming towards 100% usage of green electricity across the value chain. The company is also exploring solutions for carbon-free logistics through its advanced battery technology and exchange networks.

To facilitate this transition, CATL will introduce Green Procurement Guidelines, requiring new suppliers to disclose their products' carbon footprints, integrating renewable energy use and energy efficiency into annual evaluations. This system provides advantages for suppliers that demonstrate improved carbon performance, making them preferred in order allocations.

Future Prospects

CATL is not just focused on meeting its targets but is taking significant steps toward building a zero-carbon economy. By investing heavily in zero-carbon mobility and energy solutions, CATL aims to foster clean energy transitions globally and promote a more sustainable future.

This achievement reinforces CATL's commitment to setting industry standards for carbon neutrality in lithium-ion battery manufacturing, paving the way for future innovations and global partnerships aimed at a cleaner energy landscape.