eBay sustainability plan unveiled: Net zero goal set for 2045

eBay has released its first Climate Transition Plan, detailing how it will decarbonise its operations and value chain by 2045. The global e-commerce platform is now making a definitive move to align its environmental ambitions with emerging climate standards, while leveraging its unique business model to accelerate low-carbon commerce. A longstanding player in resale and recommerce, this announcement marks a significant step forward in eBay sustainability efforts and signals the growing importance of climate competency within digital retail. As disclosure frameworks and investor expectations evolve, eBay’s approach offers valuable insight into effective business sustainability strategies. Keep reading to find out more about eBay’s decarbonisation targets. 

eBay sustainability – Net zero by 2045

At the heart of the new eBay sustainability plan is its 2045 net zero target, validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The roadmap includes a commitment to cut 90 percent of total emissions across its value chain by 2045, along with interim goals of:

• 90 percent reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030
• 27.5 percent reduction in Scope 3 emissions from downstream transportation and distribution by 2030
• Continued 100 percent  use of renewable electricity, first achieved in 2024

What sets this plan apart is its emphasis on Scope 3 emissions, particularly in logistics (an area that accounts for 84 percent of eBay’s carbon footprint. As a platform that doesn’t own delivery fleets, eBay’s approach leans heavily on partnerships to achieve real impact.

Partnering for change in transport and delivery

Rather than pursue direct control, eBay is embedding sustainability clauses into its carrier contracts and co-investing in cleaner technologies. Logistics partners like DHL have announced goals that align with eBay’s direction, including transitioning 66 percent of last-mile vehicles to electric by 2030 and expanding the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

These collaborative approaches mirror a wider shift in how major platforms are managing Scope 3 emissions, moving from reporting-only to influence-and-investment strategies. For supply chain professionals, procurement teams and ESG officers, this underlines the importance of shared accountability in delivering sustainability outcomes.

Beyond emissions, the Climate Transition Plan also outlines how eBay will embed sustainability into governance, risk management and strategic planning. The company is aligning with the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) principles, assessing climate-related risks and identifying opportunities in the growing demand for secondhand and circular commerce. 

Final thoughts – Capability is the new differentiator

As governments reassess ESG regulation and sustainability requirements fluctuate across markets, businesses must be ready to act regardless of policy signals. eBay’s approach (collaborative, data-led, and supply chain-informed) offers a valuable model for resilience and adaptability in the face of climate uncertainty.

For SMEs and large retailers alike, this highlights a pressing need to build internal climate capability – across procurement, logistics, governance, and beyond. It’s evident that investing in sustainability training for employees is a strategic lever for risk mitigation, value creation and long-term growth. As more organisations move from targets to transition, the eBay sustainability roadmap is a clear sign that those who build capability now will lead the market later.