- COVID-19 pandemic disrupted some ESG initiatives and performance.
- Increased global turnover rates in 2021.
- Increased hazardous waste due to expired product disposal.
Alcon Inc.
Greenhouse gas emissions & sustainability report data
In its 2021 reporting, Alcon Inc. disclosed greenhouse gas emissions of 309.1K tCO2e/year (Scope 1 and 2). By scope: Scope 1: 81.2K tCO2e/year; Scope 2: 227.9K tCO2e/year (market-based); Scope 3: 1.2M tCO2e/year (2019 baseline). Figures are as stated in the company's own report and may use different boundaries, units or methods (for example market-based vs location-based Scope 2), so compare with care.
GHG Emissions
309.1K tCO2e/year (Scope 1 and 2)
2021
Water Usage
4.9K ML/year
2021
Waste
51.8K tons/year
2021
Energy Use
2.9M GJ/year
2021
📊 Emissions by Scope (2021)
| Scope | What it covers | Reported value |
|---|---|---|
| Scope 1 | Direct emissions from sources the company owns or controls (fuel combustion, company vehicles, process and fugitive emissions). | 81.2K tCO2e/year |
| Scope 2 | Indirect emissions from purchased electricity, steam, heat and cooling. | 227.9K tCO2e/year (market-based) |
| Scope 3 | Other indirect emissions across the value chain (purchased goods, business travel, use of sold products, etc.). | 1.2M tCO2e/year (2019 baseline) |
New to scopes? Read Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions explained and market-based vs location-based Scope 2.
✅ Reported Environmental Achievements
- Three manufacturing sites achieved GreenCircle zero waste to landfill certification.
- 7% decrease in energy intensity compared to 2019 baseline.
- Approximately 8,400 metric tons of CO2e avoided through energy-saving projects.
- Approximately 76% of operational waste recycled.
🎯 Climate & Sustainability Targets
🔜 Short-term
- Improve vision for 5 million people with untreated cataracts by 2025.
- Provide 150,000 vision screenings to children by 2025.
📅 Medium-term
- Become carbon neutral across global operations by 2030.
- Divert 100% of non-hazardous waste from landfill at manufacturing sites and distribution centers by 2030.
🌱 ESG Focus Areas
Brilliant Lives (Access to eye care)Brilliant Innovation (Sustainable product development)Brilliant Planet (Environmental sustainability)