Interpublic Group — full event log
Every event we have on file across every reporting year. The Data-by-year tab summarises the top 10 per year; this page shows them all.
← back to Data by year2023· 21 events
IPG launched its inaugural supplier engagement program in 2022 and repeated it in 2023, collecting GHG data from 51-75% of Tier 1 suppliers by procurement spend. IPG encourages suppliers to reduce total emissions by 30% by 2030 (2019 baseline), reach net-zero by 2040, and validate targets with SBTi. All suppliers are requested to respond to CDP annually. The engagement program estimated savings of 5,725 tCO2e in 2023. IPG purchases goods and services from over 75,000 global suppliers and has created a Preferred Vendor list with environmental criteria.
sustainability_report p.51
IPG is reducing its office portfolio to lower energy consumption and associated Scope 1 and 2 emissions. A 13% reduction in operating floorspace from 2022 to 2023 drove a 9% decrease in location-based Scope 1 and 2 emissions. Since 2016, all new tenant buildouts are required to be LEED-certified wherever possible, and IPG's real estate policies require companies to use existing portfolio space before leasing new offices. IPG also considers climate-resilient and efficient technologies in all new buildouts and has introduced climate-related criteria when considering new office leases.
sustainability_report p.41
IPG leverages hybrid office and work-from-home arrangements to offset employee commuting emissions. Employee commuting (including teleworking) is tracked using DEFRA emission factors, IEA residential energy intensity values, and Anthesis incremental energy use values, with site- and country-specific data on transportation modes. Commuting represented 42,472 tCO2e in 2023 and is included in IPG's SBTi Scope 3 30% reduction target by 2030.
sustainability_report p.63
As a client services business, Interpublic uses the Tripkicks platform within its online booking program to sort travel by carbon emissions, prefer rail over air, and select lower-carbon classes. IT upgraded all HQ conference rooms in 2023 for Teams/WebEx/Zoom to reduce unnecessary travel. Business travel emissions tracked annually: 119,934 tCO2e (2019) → 16,738 (2021 pandemic low) → 83,031 (2023). In late 2023 added individual travel CO2 reports for employees.
sustainability_report p.46
IPG Mediabrands earned global ISO 27001:2013 certification for its information security management system across all locations worldwide.
sustainability_report p.160
Data centers account for ~32% of Scope 1+2 (location-based). IPG has transitioned 2,700 of 5,800 servers to cloud (47%). Power consumption at the Omaha STC facility achieved 15.3% YoY reduction in 2023 and is 66% below 2012 peak. Acxiom phased out 3 of 8 owned data centers between 2018-2023, reducing electrical consumption ~50.37% vs 2018 baseline (~44,000 kW/year), and eliminated water cooling towers (>98% water reduction).
sustainability_report p.50
IPG's near-term science-based targets (Abs1 and Abs2) were officially approved by the Science Based Targets initiative in May 2023.
sustainability_report p.68
Interpublic's Supplier Code of Conduct requests suppliers reduce total emissions 30% by 2030 (2019 baseline) and reach net-zero by 2040, with SBTi validation, and disclose annually via CDP. The firm conducts targeted outreach to its largest vendors (by spend) regarding climate strategies and emissions data to monitor the 30% Scope 3 reduction target.
sustainability_report p.45
Since 2020, restructuring strategy reduced occupied space by 2.87 million sq ft globally (~28.7% cut). Since 2016, all new tenant occupancies must be in LEED-certified buildings where possible. New leases require landlords to source ≥50% renewable electricity by 2030, set whole-building EUI/carbon reduction goals, and provide annual ENERGY STAR scores. 30 offices across 21 countries are 'Zero Footprint' (networking only).
sustainability_report p.47
Interpublic launched its global BELONG (Building Equity, Leveraging Opportunities, and Nurturing Growth) survey in 2023, expanding from US/Canada/UK-only to cover the full global workforce. 71% response rate.
sustainability_report p.73
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP performed a limited assurance engagement on certain GHG emissions and certain people metrics for the year ended December 31, 2023.
sustainability_report p.43
IPG procures renewable electricity through unbundled Energy Attribute Certificates (RECs/EACs) across the US, EU AIB markets, India, and China (I-RECs), following GHG Protocol and RE100 retirement guidelines. In 2023, 33,016 MWh of RECs were retired (36% of purchased electricity), up from 23,654 MWh in 2022. IPG targets 100% renewable electricity by 2030 and estimates the 2023 REC purchases saved approximately 12,549 tCO2e in market-based Scope 2 emissions. RECs are sourced from wind, sustainable biomass, and hydropower facilities.
sustainability_report p.60
Interpublic proactively reviews oil/energy/utility prospective clients against a 1.5°C-aligned net-zero by 2050 standard with ≤10% offsetting. Does not work with trade associations seeking to extend fossil fuel life. Through AdGreen carbon calculator, Media Consumption Carbon Calculator (UM/Mediabrands, 32 markets), Scope3 partnership (IPG Mediabrands), and isla TRACE event measurement, the firm helps clients reduce emissions from advertising and media operations.
sustainability_report p.52
Interpublic has committed to source 100% renewable electricity across its portfolio by 2030. As of year-end 2023, renewable electricity reached approximately 36%, projected to reach 40% by end of 2024. The firm is purchasing Energy Attribute Certificates (EACs) and Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), and is exploring opportunities to join power purchase agreements (PPAs). McCann installed a rooftop solar array at Bonis Hall office in Macclesfield, UK in October 2023, plus EV charging stations.
sustainability_report p.49
IPG revamped domestic and international travel policies in 2021 to add a section specifically on sustainable business travel, aiming to reduce carbon emissions from employee travel while balancing business needs. In early 2022, IPG introduced the Tripkicks platform, which sorts air travel options by CO2 emissions in addition to schedule and cost. Air travel emissions are calculated using distance-based methodology applying UK DESNZ factors. Business travel is a large Scope 3 category (83,031 tCO2e in 2023, up from 55,659 tCO2e in 2022 as travel resumed post-pandemic) and is covered by IPG's SBTi Scope 3 target.
sustainability_report p.122
Since 2022, IPG and its agencies proactively review the climate impacts of prospective clients in the oil, energy, and utility sectors before accepting new work, using a set of questions developed with a third-party climate change expert. On multiple occasions since instituting the policy, IPG has turned down potential new business opportunities. IPG also does not engage in marketing aimed at influencing public policy to extend the life of fossil fuels. For existing carbon-intensive clients, IPG aims to positively impact their business transformation journeys.
sustainability_report p.41
Interpublic does not disclose a dedicated carbon removals strategy (DAC, BECCS, biochar). The Climate Pledge framework it signed calls for utilizing 'credible carbon offsets'. The firm states it will only work with oil/energy clients whose net-zero plans involve 'no greater than 10% off-setting,' suggesting a preference for direct reductions over removals/offsets.
sustainability_report p.58
Interpublic's Supplier Code of Conduct now requests suppliers reduce emissions 30% by 2030 (2019 baseline) and reach net-zero by 2040, with SBTi validation requested.
sustainability_report p.112
In 2023, IPG updated spend-based emissions factors for Cat 1 (purchased goods) and Cat 2 (capital goods) to use US EPA NAICS EEIO supply chain factors, replacing UK DEFRA factors used in 2022 and prior. Cat 3 fuel/energy factors also updated to combination of IEA and UK DEFRA. Result: 2023 Scope 3 Cat 1, 2, 3 decreased slightly compared to past years.
sustainability_report p.55
Interpublic's near-term science-based targets were approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) in May 2023, aligned with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Makes IPG member of Race to Zero and signatory to Business Ambition for 1.5°C.
sustainability_report p.34
IPG is executing a company-wide IT strategy to migrate hardware and software from corporate-owned data centers to energy-efficient cloud providers' data centers. Data centers account for approximately 35% of IPG's Scope 1 and Scope 2 (location-based) GHG emissions. In 2020, IPG reduced primary enterprise data center square footage by 60%; in 2021, reduced power consumption by an additional 5.73%; in 2023, power consumption is on target for a 12.5% reduction—the lowest in 14 years. Cloud hosting providers supply IPG with carbon savings data to measure progress. This initiative saved approximately 2,519 tCO2e in 2023.
sustainability_report p.41
2022· 31 events
IPG Mediabrands launched net-zero media buying offering for clients via partnership with Scope3, the first global media and agency network to do so. Tools include Media Consumption Carbon Calculator (available in 32 markets), AdGreen carbon calculator/certification, isla's TRACE for events (Momentum Worldwide deploying across 60% of project deliveries), and IPA Media Climate Charter Media Carbon Calculator. Client due diligence process declines work for fossil fuel clients not aligned with 1.5°C.
sustainability_report p.57
IPG obtained the WELL health and safety certification for its major sites in North America.
sustainability_report p.4
In October 2022, IPG expanded paid parental leave from 6 to 12 weeks for U.S. employees.
sustainability_report p.85
IPG committed to sourcing 100% renewable electricity across portfolio by 2030. In 2022, increased renewable electricity to approximately 20% through purchasing Energy Attribute Certificates (EACs) and Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). Exploring power purchase agreements (PPAs). Reached 30% by end of 2023. New office leases now require landlords to plan to source at least 50% of building electricity from renewable sources by 2030.
sustainability_report p.52
Data centers account for ~35% of IPG's Scope 1+2 location-based emissions. Since 2008 consolidation, expanded virtualization technologies by 84%, reducing power consumption by 66.4%. Excluding Acxiom, transitioned 31% of 6,100 servers to cloud; Acxiom transitioned 33% of 11,000 servers. 30 offices fully transitioned to zero-footprint (networking only). Acxiom closed 3 of 8 owned data centers between 2018-2022, reducing water use 97% and electricity 44% since 2018.
sustainability_report p.53
In 2022 introduced composting at NYC headquarters, diverting nearly 14,000 pounds of organic matter from landfill via waste-to-energy process. Removed waste bins from individual offices for four-stream sorting in common areas. Waste reduction guide deployed across all offices. Quarterly electronics collection for donation/recycling.
sustainability_report p.34
Acquired RafterOne in October 2022, a leading provider of commerce solutions on the Salesforce platform. All data for RafterOne excluded from 2022 metrics due to limited availability.
sustainability_report p.5
In 2022, IPG appointed first Chief Sustainability Officer (Jemma Gould) to spearhead global sustainability programs.
sustainability_report p.15
Formalized Global Contributions Strategy & Policy aligning charitable contributions with UN Sustainable Development Goals.
sustainability_report p.117
Launched inaugural supplier engagement program in 2022 with targeted outreach to largest vendors by spend. Expanded Supplier Code of Conduct to encourage suppliers to reduce emissions by 30% by 2030 (2019 baseline) and reach net-zero by 2040, with SBTi validation requested. Suppliers requested to disclose emissions via CDP Climate Change questionnaire. IPG estimates over 60% of emissions are associated with suppliers.
sustainability_report p.49
Since 2020, restructuring/consolidation strategy reduced occupied office space by 2.8 million sq ft globally (~28% cut) by year-end 2022. Since 2016, all new tenant occupancies required to be in LEED-certified buildings whenever possible. Green design with 80% open plan, low-energy lighting, energy-efficient HVAC. New office lease criteria include building performance reduction goals in carbon or Energy Use Intensity.
sustainability_report p.51
IPG has committed to net-zero carbon across its business by 2040 via The Climate Pledge, but has stated it is 'unsure' whether it intends to neutralise unabated emissions with permanent carbon removals at the target year. No planned milestones or investments for neutralisation have been specified. IPG does not currently use an internal carbon price, has not retired project-based carbon credits in the reporting year, and does not explicitly reference DAC, BECCS, biochar or other durable removal approaches. The firm participates in AdGreen, which includes renewable energy and carbon offsetting plans for advertising production, but specifics are not disclosed.
sustainability_report p.23
In 2022, IPG became the first advertising holding company to publish its decision not to support marketing aimed at extending the life of fossil fuels. Proactively reviews climate impacts of prospective clients in oil/energy/utility sectors before accepting new work, using questions on 1.5°C alignment, Scope 1-3 reporting, and cessation of controversial production. Has turned down potential new business on multiple occasions.
sustainability_report p.40
All data for RafterOne, acquired by Interpublic in October 2022, was excluded from the reported 2022 metrics due to limited data availability.
sustainability_report p.44
For 2022, IPG moved from pure spend-based to a hybrid approach for Cat 1: top suppliers identified by spend and supplier-specific emission factors applied where CDP/survey data available. This reduced reported Cat 1 vs prior years.
sustainability_report p.26
IPG is targeting 100% renewable electricity by 2030, up from a 0.3% base in 2019. The primary mechanism is the purchase of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) and Energy Attribute Certificates (EACs) in incremental year-over-year increases across global markets. In 2022, IPG consumed 23,654 MWh of renewable electricity (22.73% of total), sourcing RECs/GOs/I-RECs from wind (US, China), hydro (India, Brazil, Colombia), solar (Israel, Poland, Romania, Greece), and biomass (UK, France, Germany, Spain) generation facilities. IPG doubled its renewable electricity usage in 2022 vs prior year, investing USD 86,721 in wind RECs generating 7,170 tCO2e of annual savings.
sustainability_report p.22
IPG has annual third-party limited assurance in place for Scope 1, Scope 2 (both methods), and Scope 3 business travel, under AICPA AT105 standards (100% of reported emissions verified).
sustainability_report p.61
IPG requires all new tenant buildouts since 2016 to be LEED-certified or better wherever feasible, and pursues energy-efficient and sustainable office space to reduce electricity, heating and air conditioning costs. The company actively reduces its real estate footprint by co-locating agencies, requiring companies to exhaust existing portfolio space before leasing additional space, and applying a benchmark of square footage per person. All new space assessments include climate-resilient and efficient technologies. These measures reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions from building operations.
sustainability_report p.18
IPG calculates employee commuting emissions (Scope 3 Cat 7) using DEFRA emission factors across transportation modes and IEA/EPA factors for home-working energy use. Hybrid and work-from-home arrangements are credited as an offset to commuting emissions in the inventory. In 2022, employee commuting was 35,650 tCO2e, down from the 2019 baseline of 43,413 tCO2e. IPG's Sustainability Allies group promotes employee behaviour change and energy-saving practices in remote workspaces.
sustainability_report p.32
IPG began receiving external limited assurance from PwC under AICPA AT105 attestation standards for Scope 1, Scope 2 (location and market-based), and Scope 3 Category 6 (Business Travel) starting in 2022. 100% of reported emissions verified annually.
sustainability_report p.67
IPG consolidated four Global IT Data Centers and expanded virtualisation technologies by 80%, reducing electricity consumption in the primary data centre by 5.73% in 2021. Over the next 3-5 years, IPG is rolling out a company-wide IT strategy prioritising cloud migration, reviewing hardware and software at end-of-useful-life and migrating to pre-vetted, energy-efficient cloud providers. In 2020, IPG reduced primary enterprise data centre square footage by 60%. This lever delivers material Scope 2 savings by moving workloads to providers' energy-efficient facilities.
sustainability_report p.13
IPG revamped its domestic and international travel policies in 2021 to integrate a sustainable business travel section, balancing in-person relationship-building with emissions reduction. In early 2022, IPG introduced the Tripkicks booking platform, which sorts air travel options by CO2 emissions alongside schedule and cost, enabling employees to choose lower-carbon itineraries. This lever targets Scope 3 Category 6 (2022: 55,205 tCO2e), which rebounded post-pandemic from 16,738 tCO2e in 2021 and remains far below the 2019 baseline of 119,934 tCO2e.
sustainability_report p.21
IPG purchases products and services from more than 75,000 suppliers globally, guided by its SS&P team. The company has launched a supplier outreach programme collecting GHG inventory data and emissions target maturity information, and encourages suppliers to reduce total emissions by 30% by 2030 (2019 baseline) and reach net-zero by 2040 with SBTi validation. All suppliers are requested to respond to CDP annually. In 2022, IPG further expanded its supplier RFP process to include ESG strategy questions, and the supplier engagement initiative delivered an estimated 7,698 tCO2e annual saving in Cat 1.
sustainability_report p.24
In 2022, IPG became the first advertising holding company to publish its decision not to support or engage in marketing or communications aimed at influencing public policy that seeks to extend the life of fossil fuels. Also introduced a climate screening for prospective oil, energy and utility sector clients.
sustainability_report p.30
2022 emissions data was submitted in 2023 CDP prior to assurance process being complete. IPG restated 2022 Scope 3 data based on finalized post-assurance inventory. Does not require base year recalculation as change does not meet 5% significance threshold.
sustainability_report p.55
In 2022, IPG became the first advertising holding company to publicly decline marketing that extends the life of fossil fuels, and applies a climate-impact review (1.5C alignment, Scope 1/2/3 reporting, ceased controversial production) to prospective oil, energy and utility clients before accepting work. Has turned down new business on multiple occasions.
sustainability_report p.40
Near-term science-based reduction targets validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), aligned with 1.5°C trajectory.
sustainability_report p.39
In March 2022, IPG suspended operations in Russia following invasion of Ukraine.
sustainability_report p.148
Announced climate review process for prospective clients in oil, gas and energy sector. First advertising holding company to decline marketing/communications aimed at extending life of fossil fuels.
sustainability_report p.56
In 2022, IPG became the first advertising holding company to publish its decision not to support or engage in marketing or communications aimed at influencing public policy that seeks to extend the life of fossil fuels. Also implemented climate-impact review for prospective oil/energy/utility clients.
sustainability_report p.40
In 2022, introduced Tripkicks platform that sorts travel options by carbon emissions, displays eco-friendly booking options. Travel policies encourage virtual meetings, rail over air, and careful air class selection. Began supporting development of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs). Business travel emissions tracked annually — fell from 119,934 tCO2e (2019) to 55,659 tCO2e (2022).
sustainability_report p.50
2021· 58 events
IPG committed to sourcing 100% renewable electricity across portfolio by 2030, via RECs/EACs and exploring PPAs. Progress: ~10% in 2021, expected ~20% in 2022.
sustainability_report p.36
Interpublic committed to reach net-zero carbon by 2040, with SBTi-validated science-based targets to reduce Scope 1+2 emissions 50% by 2030 (1.5°C aligned) and Scope 3 emissions 30% by 2030 (2°C aligned) from a 2019 baseline.
sustainability_report p.41
Interpublic committed to sourcing 100% renewable electricity across its portfolio by 2030.
sustainability_report p.41
IPG is a founding member of AdGreen, which provides a carbon calculator and certification for advertising production. In 2022 IPG will launch AdGreen tools in some regions to help clients calculate and mitigate environmental impact of advertising production. Initiative and UM are founding members of IPA Media Climate Charter (media buying carbon calculator); Jack Morton is a founding member of isla (events industry sustainability).
sustainability_report p.50
IPG consolidated four Global IT Data Centers, expanded virtualization technologies by 80% reducing power consumption in IT operations by 66%. In 2020 reduced primary enterprise data center square footage by 60%, in 2021 reduced primary data center power consumption by additional 5.73%. Acxiom phased out 3 of 8 owned data centers between 2018-2022 and reduced annual electricity consumption by ~38%.
sustainability_report p.42
IPG set a science-based target approved by SBTi to reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 (market-based) emissions 50% by 2030 from a 2019 baseline (96,102 tCO2e). As of 2023 reporting year, 132.5% of target achieved relative to base year.
sustainability_report p.116
IPG set a target to procure 100% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, starting from a 0.31% base in 2019. Progress: 36% renewable electricity in 2023 (35.80% of target achieved).
sustainability_report p.123
IPG formally joined The Climate Pledge in 2021, committing to reach net-zero carbon across global operations by 2040, 10 years ahead of the Paris Agreement. Linked to SBTi targets Abs1 and Abs2.
sustainability_report p.124
IPG set a science-based target approved by SBTi to reduce absolute Scope 3 emissions (Categories 1,2,3,5,6,7) 30% by 2030 from 2019 baseline (540,474 tCO2e). As of 2023 reporting year, 98.71% of target achieved relative to base year.
sustainability_report p.119
In 2021, IPG expanded our Scope 3 inventory beyond historical air travel emissions reporting to include Cat 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 (Cat 4 included in Cat 1).
sustainability_report p.45
IPG adopted ambitious climate action plan including net-zero by 2040, 50% reduction in Scope 1+2 by 2030, 30% reduction in Scope 3 by 2030, 100% renewable electricity by 2030 (2019 baseline). Joined Climate Pledge signatories.
sustainability_report p.43
Renewable energy certificates (RECs) equivalent to 12,056 MWh were retired globally in 2021, reducing market-based Scope 2 emissions by approximately 4,168.9 tCO2e (6.2% of 2020 combined S1+S2 total).
sustainability_report p.31
Since 2016, all new IPG tenant buildouts are required to be LEED-certified or better wherever feasible. IPG has consolidated four global IT data centres to a single energy-efficient facility in Nebraska, reducing enterprise data centre square footage by 60% (2020) and primary data centre power consumption by 32% (2019 vs 2018). Virtualisation has increased 80% since 2008, cutting IT power consumption by 66%. These initiatives are estimated to save 1,160 tCO2e/year each (Scope 1 and location-based Scope 2). Sharing facilities and seeking solutions within the existing real estate portfolio before leasing new space further reduces energy use.
sustainability_report p.18
IPG adopted a Supplier Code of Conduct requiring all suppliers to comply with applicable environmental laws, adopt environmentally friendly policies, and share IPG's sustainability commitment. Every new supplier contract requires completion of a detailed sustainability questionnaire; existing supplier contracts are reviewed at least every three years. In late 2020, IPG launched Range, a vendor management programme that embeds sustainability metrics alongside capability and diversity criteria. IPG is rolling out a supplier outreach programme to engage vendors on ESG performance and strategies, targeting the 238,406 tCO2e (2021) Scope 3 Cat 1 footprint.
sustainability_report p.52
IPG set an absolute Scope 3 target covering cats 1-7: 30% reduction from 2019 baseline (540,473.7 tCO2e) by 2030. Well-below 2°C aligned. Committed to seek SBTi validation within two years. First year of full Scope 3 inventory reporting.
sustainability_report p.15
2021 is the first year IPG calculated and reported its full Scope 3 inventory across categories 1-7 (purchased goods, capital goods, fuel/energy, waste, business travel, employee commuting). 2019 used as base year for these categories.
sustainability_report p.15
IPG's net-zero target (NZ1) explicitly states that the company intends to neutralise any unabated emissions with permanent carbon removals by 2040. No specific removal technology or volume has been disclosed for the current reporting period. IPG's near-term milestones focus on the 50% Scope 1+2 reduction and 30% Scope 3 reduction by 2030 as a prerequisite before relying on removals. The company also purchased 254 tCO2e of voluntary offsets via Carbonfund.org (Gold Standard, VCS, CAR, ACR, CCBS certified) in 2021 to offset agency-level business travel, though these are framed as offsets rather than durable removals.
sustainability_report p.17
IPG set an absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 (market-based) target: 50% reduction from 2019 baseline by 2030, aligned to 1.5°C. Committed to seek SBTi validation within two years. Base year emissions: 96,102 tCO2e combined S1+S2.
sustainability_report p.13
IPG formally joined The Climate Pledge (co-founded by Amazon and Global Optimism), committing to net-zero carbon across its business by 2040, 10 years ahead of the Paris Agreement. Plans to neutralise residual emissions with permanent carbon removals.
sustainability_report p.17
IPG revamped its domestic and international travel policies in 2021, adding a dedicated section on sustainable business travel to reduce Scope 3 Cat 6 emissions. The company enhanced its online booking application to sort air travel options by CO2 emissions alongside schedule and cost — one of the first Fortune 500 companies to do so. US market rollout occurred in 2021 with international markets to follow through 2022. Business travel emissions fell from 119,934 tCO2e (2019, pre-pandemic) to 22,851 tCO2e (2020) and 16,939 tCO2e (2021), partly driven by COVID but supported by policy changes.
sustainability_report p.15
IPG set a science-based target (well-below 2°C aligned, SBTi approved May 2023) to reduce Scope 3 emissions (cats 1,2,3,5,6,7) by 30% by 2030 vs. 2019 baseline of 540,474 tCO2e.
sustainability_report p.19
IPG formally joined The Climate Pledge in 2021, committing to net-zero carbon by 2040, 10 years ahead of the Paris Agreement. Linked to Abs1 and Abs2 SBT targets.
sustainability_report p.23
IPG set a science-based target (1.5°C aligned, approved by SBTi in May 2023) to reduce Scope 1 and Scope 2 (market-based) emissions by 50% by 2030 vs. 2019 baseline of 96,102 tCO2e.
sustainability_report p.15
IPG set a target to source 100% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, from a 0.3% renewable base in 2019. Progress in 2022: 22.73%.
sustainability_report p.22
In 2021, IPG announced an ambitious climate action plan, with a goal to reach net-zero carbon by 2040, with intermediate targets: 50% reduction of Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions (2019 baseline) and 30% reduction of Scope 3 emissions (2019 baseline) by 2030. Also committed to 100% renewable electricity by 2030. Targets submitted to SBTi.
sustainability_report p.36
2022 ESG report prepared in alignment with GRI Standards Core, SASB Advertising & Marketing, TCFD recommendations and the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact.
sustainability_report p.141
IPG expanded scope of metrics subject to external assurance to include Scope 3, Category 6 (Business Travel), in addition to certain GHG emissions and employee diversity metrics. PwC performed limited assurance.
sustainability_report p.5
IPG obtained the WELL health and safety certification for our major sites in North America.
sustainability_report p.4
IPG Mediabrands made the industry's first spending commitment to invest at least 5% of total advertising spend of its clients with Black-owned media businesses by 2023.
sustainability_report p.3
IPG promotes alternatives to in-person meetings and seeks to neutralize unavoidable emissions with carbon offsets, and has begun to support the development of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs). The Climate Pledge signatory commitments include using credible carbon offsets. No durable removals (DAC, BECCS) disclosed.
sustainability_report p.41
IPG consolidated four Global IT Data Centers via the Scott Technology Center facilities in Omaha. Expanded virtualization by 80% reducing power consumption in IT operations by 66%. In 2020, reduced primary enterprise data center square footage by 60%; in 2021, cut power consumption a further 5.73%. Acxiom phased out 3 of 8 owned data centers (2018-2022), reducing annual electricity ~38%.
sustainability_report p.42
IPG established 2019 as the baseline year for its science-based targets covering Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions.
sustainability_report p.36
As of year-end 2021, IPG reduced global occupied office space by 2.2M square feet, ~22% since 2019, supporting emissions reduction.
sustainability_report p.43
IPG has committed to sourcing 100% renewable electricity across its portfolio by 2030. In 2021, renewable electricity usage was approximately 10%, on track to reach 20% by end of 2022. IPG is purchasing Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) and Energy Attribute Certificates (EACs) and exploring opportunities to join power purchase agreements (PPAs).
sustainability_report p.41
Since 2016, all new tenant buildouts must conform to LEED-certified or better where possible. IPG reduced global occupied office space by 2.2M sq ft (~22%) since 2019, lowering operating costs and emissions. Energy-efficient buildings, green design with open plans, and on-site sensors reduce consumption.
sustainability_report p.42
IPG inaugurated a supplier engagement program to begin to understand and ultimately work to lower this important component of Scope 3 emissions. Founding member of AdGreen (carbon calculator and certification for production) and Ad Net Zero industry coalition.
sustainability_report p.4
IPG submitted Scope 1, 2 and 3 science-based targets to SBTi for validation, aligned with limiting warming to 1.5°C. Also joined Business Ambition for 1.5°C and UN Race to Zero.
sustainability_report p.39
IPG has committed to sourcing 100% renewable electricity across its global portfolio by 2030 as part of its Climate Pledge commitment. The renewable electricity goal underpins the 50% Scope 1+2 reduction target. Some IPG companies (Momentum) encourage employees to switch to renewable energy providers at home, and the firm relocates offices to LEED-certified buildings as part of resource efficiency. A small number of locations purchased renewable energy credits in 2020, though excluded from market-based Scope 2 reporting as immaterial.
sustainability_report p.39
IPG became a founding member of AdGreen, an Advertising Association initiative to help advertisers mitigate environmental impact of production through carbon calculator and certification.
sustainability_report p.22
Through IPG Mediabrands' Equity Upfront, committed to investing minimum 5% of clients' total ad spend with Black-owned and Black-targeted media by 2023.
sustainability_report p.7
IPG revamped domestic and international travel policies in 2021 adding sustainable business travel section. New enhancement to online booking application sorts air travel options by CO2 emissions alongside schedule and cost. In 2022 introduced Tripkicks platform working with SAP Concur to inform employees of eco-friendly options. Weber Shandwick launched 'Mindful Miles' philosophy evaluating value/necessity of each trip. Business travel was 7% of 2020 Scope 3 (~22,373 tCO2e).
sustainability_report p.45
First year IPG expanded Scope 3 categories beyond historical air travel reporting to include Cat 1 purchased goods, Cat 2 capital goods, Cat 3 fuel/energy, Cat 4 upstream transport (in Cat 1), Cat 5 waste, Cat 6 business travel, Cat 7 employee commuting, for 2019 and 2020.
sustainability_report p.48
For the first time, IPG adopted a formal Human Rights Policy applying to all global network companies, employees and suppliers.
sustainability_report p.6
IPG recognizes the need to balance limits on employee business travel with relationship-building needs of a client services business, and its policies seek to neutralize unavoidable emissions with carbon offsets. The Climate Pledge calls for utilizing credible carbon offsets. FutureBrand São Paulo achieved carbon neutrality for 2020 operations by working with Idesam (Amazon conservation institute). No durable removals (DAC, BECCS) referenced.
sustainability_report p.46
IPG announced new climate commitments: net-zero carbon by 2040, 50% reduction of Scope 1+2 emissions by 2030 (2019 baseline), 30% reduction of Scope 3 emissions by 2030 (2019 baseline), and 100% renewable electricity by 2030. Targets submitted to SBTi for validation.
sustainability_report p.36
In 2021, IPG expanded its Scope 3 inventory beyond historical air travel emissions reporting to include 7 categories (cats 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7). Performed Scope 3 inventory on calendar years 2019, 2020, and 2021.
sustainability_report p.37
IPG expanded scope of metrics subject to external assurance to include Scope 3 Category 6 (Business Travel), in addition to existing GHG emissions and employee diversity metrics assured by PwC.
sustainability_report p.5
In 2021, IPG revamped domestic and international travel policies with sustainability lens. Introduced Tripkicks platform in early 2022, which sorts air travel by carbon emissions alongside schedule and cost. Business travel emissions fell from 119,934 tCO2e (2019) to 16,738 tCO2e (2021). Encouraged virtual meetings and considered rail over air.
sustainability_report p.41
IPG Mediabrands launched Equity Upfront and made industry's first spending commitment to invest at least 5% of clients' total advertising spend with Black-owned media businesses by 2023.
sustainability_report p.3
As of year-end 2021, IPG reduced global occupied office space by 2.2M sq ft (~22%) since 2019, contributing to lower operational emissions.
sustainability_report p.43
IPG became signatory to The Climate Pledge (net-zero by 2040), UN Race to Zero, Business Ambition for 1.5°C, and America Is All In.
sustainability_report p.36
IPG seeks to promote alternatives to in-person meetings requiring travel and to neutralize unavoidable emissions with carbon offsets. The company has begun to support the development of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) through purchase of SAF credits as a way to directly address travel emissions. No durable removals (DAC/BECCS) disclosed.
sustainability_report p.41
IPG revamped domestic and international travel policies in 2021 to specifically address sustainability. Deployed Tripkicks platform in early 2022 which sorts air travel options by carbon emissions alongside schedule and cost. Business travel emissions dropped from 119,934 tCO2e (2019) to 16,738 tCO2e (2021), aided by pandemic-driven shift to virtual meetings and policy changes encouraging rail over air.
sustainability_report p.41
Since 2016, all new tenant occupancies must be in LEED-certified buildings whenever possible. IPG reduced global occupied office space by 2.2M sq ft (~22%) since 2019. Co-locating companies, green design (80% open plan), efficient lighting/HVAC, and ENERGY STAR buildings are core levers.
sustainability_report p.42
IPG inaugurated a supplier engagement program to understand and ultimately work to lower this important component of Scope 3 emissions. Purchased goods and services (cat 1) represents 68% of IPG's Scope 3 footprint. Suppliers are expected to adopt environmental sustainability policies per IPG's Supplier Code of Conduct.
sustainability_report p.4
In 2021, IPG became a founding member of AdGreen, launched by the UK Advertising Association, which unites the advertising industry toward zero waste and zero carbon production. AdGreen calls on agencies to discuss emissions associated with scripts, share carbon footprint data, and adjust behaviours in travel, energy, and waste. A carbon calculator and certification process were planned for later 2021. IPG will launch AdGreen tools in additional regions in 2022 to help clients calculate and mitigate the environmental impact of advertising production, targeting the dominant Scope 3 Cat 1 purchased services footprint.
sustainability_report p.54
IPG is pursuing 100% renewable electricity by 2030 through incremental annual purchases of unbundled energy attribute certificates (RECs/EACs/GOs/REGOs/I-RECs) across its global portfolio. In 2021, 12,056 MWh of RECs were retired across markets including the US (wind, 9,524 MWh), UK (wind, 747 MWh), India (wind, 351 MWh), Israel (solar, 330 MWh), Canada (hydro, 302 MWh), Germany (wind+solar, 291 MWh), China (wind, 270 MWh), and UAE (solar, 251 MWh). This achieved 10.9% renewable electricity in the reporting year, up from 0% in the 2019 base year. The approach is linked to the Abs 1 Scope 1+2 target and the net-zero 2040 commitment.
sustainability_report p.35
IPG calculates employee commuting emissions including a work-from-home component using IEA residential energy intensity values and incremental energy use factors (Anthesis methodology). Hybrid office and work-from-home arrangements are explicitly cited as a mechanism to offset commuting Scope 3 emissions under the Abs 2 target plan. Commuting emissions were 43,413 tCO2e in 2019, declining to 30,862 tCO2e in 2020 and rising slightly to 36,545 tCO2e in 2021 as activity recovered post-pandemic.
sustainability_report p.15
2020· 32 events
Company-wide restructuring initiative launched in 2020 resulted in 2.8 million sq ft (~28%) reduction in occupied office space by year-end 2022, contributing to emissions reduction.
sustainability_report p.51
PricewaterhouseCoopers performed a limited assurance engagement on certain greenhouse gas emissions metrics for FY2020 and certain diversity metrics as of December 15, 2020.
sustainability_report p.148
In 2020 an enhanced methodology was implemented which may cause some variation in comparing year-over-year data.
sustainability_report p.37
Launched in 2020, restructuring initiative reduced occupied office space by 2.87 million sq ft globally (~28.7% reduction) by year-end 2023, supporting emissions reductions.
sustainability_report p.47
Pandemic shifted IPG to permanent flexibility / organized flexibility work model, with reduced commuting. Employee commuting (including teleworking) was 10% of 2020 Scope 3 emissions (~31,961 tCO2e), the largest non-purchased-goods category. Updated travel policies promote rail over air, coach over premium.
sustainability_report p.49
IPG launched a business restructuring initiative in 2020 reducing office space by 2.2 million square feet globally (~22% cut of occupied spaces since 2019), which also reduces carbon footprint.
sustainability_report p.124
IPG spends over $2B annually with 75,000+ suppliers. The Supplier Code of Conduct sets expectations on legal compliance, integrity, human rights, equal opportunity and environment. In late 2020 IPG launched the Source-to-Pay (STP) Transformation Program to create a vetted preferred-vendor list with mandatory agency use, selecting vendors based on diversity, human rights and environmental impact criteria.
sustainability_report p.67
Since 2008 IT consolidation to Scott Technology Center in Omaha, IPG expanded virtualization technologies by 80%, reducing power consumption in IT operations by 66%. In 2020, reduced power consumption in primary data center by an additional 15.2% vs 2019, and reduced enterprise data center square footage by 60%.
sustainability_report p.47
IPG has specifically committed to UN Sustainable Development Goal #6, access to water and sanitation for all, partnering with charity:water.
sustainability_report p.18
This year IPG expanded its emissions calculation boundary to include all IPG and agency locations of every size around the world, achieving 100% coverage (up from 65% last year). Reported 2017 and 2018 data restated with expanded boundary.
sustainability_report p.62
IPG is exploring science-based targets to expand upon current Scope 2 intensity commitment, now that 100% emissions boundary has been reached.
sustainability_report p.60
In 2020 IPG vacated approximately 1.7 million square feet globally (11% reduction) as workforce shifted to remote working due to COVID-19. Expected to reduce business travel and Scope 3 emissions going forward.
sustainability_report p.15
IPG announced adoption of the UN Global Compact's Women's Empowerment Principles (WEPs), committing to integrating the seven principles and gender gap analysis tool into measurement framework.
sustainability_report p.17
All new tenant buildouts since 2016 are required to be LEED-certified or better whenever feasible. IPG's Central IT moved to Jersey City, NJ achieving LEED Gold. Internal real estate policies require agencies to look within the portfolio for shared real estate solutions before leasing new space. In 2020 IPG vacated 1.7M sq ft globally (11% reduction).
sustainability_report p.61
In 2020, IPG was the only advertising holding company headquartered in North America to be listed on DJSI North America, recognizing the top 20% of sustainability performers among the 600 largest U.S. and Canadian companies.
sustainability_report p.18
In 2020 an enhanced methodology was implemented which may cause some variation in comparing data from 2019 to 2020. Achieved 100% boundary coverage covering all global locations (350+ facilities).
sustainability_report p.143
Target reference Int 1, set in 2017, base year 2015, covering Scope 2 location-based. 10% reduction in tCO2e per FTE by 2030. As of reporting year 2020, target was achieved (315% of target achieved). Intensity figure 0.91 vs. base 1.33.
sustainability_report p.13
IPG formally joined The Climate Pledge, co-founded by Amazon and Global Optimism, committing to reaching net-zero carbon across its business by 2040, 10 years ahead of the Paris Agreement.
sustainability_report p.11
IPG enhanced its online booking tool to allow employees to sort air travel by CO2 emissions as well as by time and cost — one of the first Fortune 500 companies to implement this. Typically employees travel ~300 million air miles per year, but in 2020 travel virtually stopped due to COVID-19, reducing scope 3 business travel emissions to 19,057 tCO2e. IPG is revisiting and strengthening its sustainable business travel policy in light of new climate action commitments and shifting post-COVID travel trends, targeting further reductions through virtual meetings and teleconferencing.
sustainability_report p.20
IPG committed to sourcing 100% renewable electricity by 2030 for its entire portfolio as part of its 2021 Climate Action Plan announcement.
sustainability_report p.11
IPG became a founding member of AdGreen in 2021, which helps advertisers mitigate the environmental impact of production. The initiative unites the advertising industry toward a zero waste and zero carbon future through training sessions, renewable energy and carbon offsetting plans.
sustainability_report p.11
IPG purchased 1,154.84 metric tonnes CO2e of voluntary carbon offsets from Cool Effect, Inc. in the 2020 reporting year, verified to the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS). The three projects supported were: biogas digesters and clean cookstoves (673 tCO2e), community tree planting in Uganda (100 tCO2e), and grasslands, water and wildlife conservation (500 tCO2e). These are used for voluntary offsetting, not compliance. IPG also became a founding member of AdGreen which includes carbon offsetting plans for advertising production.
sustainability_report p.28
In 2021, IPG committed to set an emissions reduction target in line with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C through the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). This makes IPG a signatory to the Business Ambition for 1.5°C and a member of the UN-backed Race to Zero campaign.
sustainability_report p.13
In 2020, IPG officially reached 100% boundary coverage of all IPG and agency locations and offices around the world, representing over 350 facilities worldwide. 2018 was the first year with 100% coverage (up from 65% in 2017).
sustainability_report p.16
IPG migrated IT infrastructure to the state-of-the-art Scott Technology Center at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, consolidating four Global IT Data Centers into one energy-efficient facility. Through increased virtualisation and cloud migration, IPG reduced power consumption in the primary data centre by an additional 32% in 2019 vs. 2018, and reduced enterprise data centre square footage by 60% in 2020. These changes contributed an estimated 1,160 tCO2e savings annually. Central IT also moved to Jersey City, NJ achieving Gold level LEED certification.
sustainability_report p.15
IPG requires all suppliers to complete sustainability questionnaires at contract signing and reviews contracts at least every three years. IPG adopted a Supplier Code of Conduct requiring suppliers to share its commitment to sustainability and comply with environmental laws. In late 2020, IPG launched Range, a new vendor management programme that captures sustainability metrics including climate-related criteria in vendor selection. IPG aims to engage 100% of suppliers on climate and sustainability issues.
sustainability_report p.29
Since 2016, all new tenant buildouts are required to be LEED-certified or better wherever feasible. IPG's real estate department includes assessments of climate-resilient and efficient technologies whenever offices are relocated or built out. IPG also has internal real estate policies requiring all agencies to look within the portfolio for shared real estate solutions before committing to new leases. These initiatives contribute an estimated 1,160 tCO2e savings annually and reduce operating costs including electricity, heating, and air conditioning.
sustainability_report p.15
In 2020, IPG reached 100% boundary coverage of all IPG and agency locations worldwide (over 350 facilities). The 2020 GHG emissions used an updated methodology which may cause some variation in comparing year-over-year data.
sustainability_report p.124
IPG became the first advertising holding company to release EEO-1 statistics on gender and race composition of leadership at U.S. operations.
sustainability_report p.15
IPG has committed to sourcing 100% renewable electricity by 2030 for its entire portfolio, announced as part of its 2021 Climate Action Plan. In the 2020 reporting year, 1,279.51 MWh of renewable electricity was consumed (out of 143,763 MWh total, ~0.89%). IPG acknowledges it is a decentralised holding company and is still working to improve its renewable energy inventory specifics at the agency level. Some IPG companies are known to use renewable energy but detailed data was not yet consolidated.
sustainability_report p.25
IPG decreased physical office footprint by 2.2 million sq ft (~22%) since 2019. All new tenant buildouts since 2016 are required to be in LEED-certified buildings wherever feasible. Central IT consolidated to LEED Gold facility in Jersey City. Real estate policies require companies to seek existing portfolio space before leasing additional space. Composting introduced at HQ.
sustainability_report p.46
Purchased goods and services (Cat 1, including Cat 4 upstream transport) represented 67% of Scope 3 emissions in 2020 (~214,139 tCO2e) — the dominant footprint category. IPG is rolling out a supplier outreach program engaging vendors on ESG performance, deploying SAP Ariba supplier management platform with diversity, human rights and environmental impact criteria, and Third-Party Risk Management process.
sustainability_report p.86
2019· 4 events
Beginning with 2019 emissions inventory, IPG achieved 100% coverage of locations worldwide (~350 facilities). Historical inventories prior to 2018 had reduced scope.
sustainability_report p.179
Multi-year project to expand emissions inventory boundary culminated in 2019 with 100% of global locations (300+ facilities) included. Historical inventories prior to 2018 used reduced scope.
sustainability_report p.186
IPG migrated IT infrastructure to the Scott Technology Center in Omaha, consolidating four global data centers. With migration to cloud solutions, power consumption in the primary data center was reduced by 32% in 2019 vs 2018. In 2020, enterprise data center square footage was reduced by 60%, with additional energy reductions expected.
sustainability_report p.61
IPG implemented smart travel policies focused on traveling less, lighter, and smarter. The online booking tool was enhanced to allow business travelers to sort air travel by CO2 emissions alongside time and cost, available in nearly all countries where online booking is offered. COVID-19 accelerated reductions through virtual meetings and telepresence. In 2019, ~54,000 employees traveled 342.5 million miles by air resulting in 67,232 tCO2e.
sustainability_report p.65
2017· 1 event
In 2017, IPG set a Scope 2 relative intensity target for a 10% reduction by 2030 in metric tons CO2e per employee from a baseline of 2015.
sustainability_report p.40