Schneider Electric and the Zero Carbon Project: Reducing Carbon Emissions Through the Supply Chain

This case centers on Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy management, digital automation, and sustainability, as it seeks to scale its flagship supply chain decarbonization initiative, The Zero Carbon Project (TZCP). The case, set in April 2021, follows Christophe Quiquempoix, the company’s sustainable procurement vice president, who faces mounting pressure to deliver a measurable sustainability impact while aligning with financial performance goals and operational constraints during the COVID-19 pandemic, growing geopolitical instability, and tightening of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) regulatory requirements. Quiquempoix needs to show significant results by Capital Markets Day in November 2021, when he must present details on TZCP.

The case invites students to think critically about the trade-offs between environmental progress and execution at scale. It also introduces challenges in measuring indirect emissions, engaging low-maturity suppliers, and aligning sustainability goals with financial and operational realities.

• Explain the details of both scope 3 and supply chain carbon reductions and their challenges.
• Evaluate the efficacy and the rollout of TZCP to achieve Schneider Electric’s stated goals and what potential gaps might exist.
• Analyze whether Schneider Electric’s supply chain decarbonization goals conflict or complement other business goals, such as financial performance.