© Die Autobahn

CLIMATE SOLUTIONS & SUSTAINABILITY FOR THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

Discover how FORLIANCE can help you with climate strategies and climate project development specific to the automotive industry.

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HOW FORLIANCE SUPPORTS THE AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR’S CLIMATE STRATEGY

 

The automotive industry faces increasing pressure to decarbonize—from complex global supply chains to evolving regulations and shifting consumer expectations. FORLIANCE supports automotive companies with tailored climate strategies that align with their operational realities and innovation goals. Whether you're working to reduce Scope 1–3 emissions, invest in high-quality nature-based solutions, or meet disclosure requirements like CSRD, our sector-specific expertise helps you drive real progress toward Net Zero—credibly and transparently. Explore how we accelerate sustainability across the mobility value chain.

KEY CLIMATE CHALLENGES IN THE AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR

Complex, Global Supply Chains with High Emissions

Automotive value chains are vast, international, and often opaque — making it difficult to measure, manage, and reduce emissions across all tiers. Particularly Scope 3 emissions from raw materials, logistics, and parts suppliers are a major challenge for manufacturers seeking credible climate strategies. Lack of transparency also increases risks in terms of ESG compliance and reputational exposure.

Pressure from Evolving Regulations (e.g., CSRD, EU Taxonomy)

Regulatory demands for climate disclosure and risk management are increasing — particularly in the EU. Automotive companies are now expected to report transparently on GHG emissions, climate risks, and biodiversity impacts. However, many lack the internal resources and clarity on how to meet these standards effectively and consistently.

Transitioning to Electrification without Losing Climate Credibility

The shift to electric mobility is central to decarbonisation — but also brings new sustainability challenges, particularly around battery sourcing, lifecycle emissions, and greenwashing concerns. Stakeholders increasingly expect transparency and measurable impact beyond electrification alone.

High Emissions from Production and Manufacturing Processes

Automotive production processes – from steel and aluminum to battery manufacturing – are energy-intensive and often fossil fuel-reliant. Transitioning to low-carbon production is not only capital-intensive but also operationally complex, especially in existing plants.

Difficulty Demonstrating Real Climate Impact to Stakeholders

Investors, regulators, and customers demand more than commitments — they want proof of progress. The challenge lies in tracking real emissions reductions, biodiversity outcomes, and climate resilience, and reporting this in a transparent, verifiable way.

Balancing Innovation with Long-Term Climate Responsibility

The automotive sector is under pressure to innovate rapidly — from autonomous driving to connected vehicles and new mobility models. However, these innovations often focus on performance and convenience, while their long-term environmental footprint remains under-assessed. Integrating sustainability into R&D, product design, and new business models is a growing challenge.

IMPACT-DRIVEN SUSTAINABILITY CONSULTING FOR THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

OUR SOLUTION

 

Emissions Analysis & Reporting

We conduct detailed GHG accounting, aligned with the GHG Protocol, to map and quantify indirect emissions across your full supply chain.

CSRD-Aligned Reporting Support

We help you collect, structure, and report ESG data in compliance with CSRD and other regulatory frameworks.

Carbon Footprinting

FORLIANCE develops detailed carbon models for plants and product lines to track and manage emissions over time.

Stakeholder Communication Strategy

We help you build credible narratives around climate action and avoid misleading claims.

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© Die Autobahn

Automotive Case Study

 

FORLIANCE partnered with Die Autobahn GmbH to support the development of a comprehensive climate strategy tailored to the specific needs of Germany’s federal highway authority. Through close collaboration and a structured, science-based approach, we conducted a detailed GHG baseline analysis and identified key emission hotspots across operations. The project involved targeted workshops and cross-departmental coordination to ensure practical, actionable recommendations. 

As a result, Die Autobahn GmbH now benefits from a robust emissions reduction roadmap and clear strategic direction aligned with national climate goals. This case demonstrates how tailored climate consulting can turn complex infrastructure systems into credible climate action drivers.

Get your consulting for the automotive industry

With deep expertise in the automotive sector, FORLIANCE helps you turn complex climate challenges into actionable, industry-ready solutions — start your transformation today.

Milan Pal, Manager Partnerships Development
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FAQs ON CLIMATE SOLUTIONS FOR THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

 

What are the current sustainability trends in the automotive industry?

The automotive industry is undergoing a major transformation toward sustainability. Key trends include the electrification of vehicle fleets, decarbonization of supply chains, and a growing focus on circular economy principles such as material recovery and recycling. Regulatory frameworks like the EU Green Deal and CSRD are accelerating transparency and emissions reductions, while stakeholders increasingly expect robust ESG integration and credible climate action. Companies that lead in sustainability are leveraging climate data, lifecycle assessments, and nature-based investments to future-proof their business models.

Are there special requirements for CSRD reporting for the automotive industry?

Yes, under the CSRD, automotive companies—especially those with large and complex value chains—must disclose detailed, sector-relevant data. This includes Scope 1–3 emissions, climate-related risks and opportunities, and biodiversity impacts linked to raw materials and land use. The directive requires double materiality assessments and forward-looking targets aligned with global climate goals. Due to the industry's carbon intensity and supply chain complexity, reporting must be particularly robust and transparent. FORLIANCE supports companies in the automotive sector in meeting these requirements with structured processes and science-based tools.

Why is a climate strategy essential for a future-proof automotive industry?

A climate strategy is no longer optional—it’s critical for competitiveness, compliance, and resilience. The automotive sector faces increasing pressure from regulations, investors, and consumers to reduce its environmental impact. A clear, science-based climate strategy helps companies identify emission hotspots, mitigate risks, and align operations with international climate goals such as Net Zero. It also supports innovation and market differentiation, positioning your company as a responsible leader in a rapidly evolving mobility landscape.

What is automotive sustainability and what can companies do to achieve it?

Automotive sustainability refers to the integration of environmental, social, and economic responsibility (ESG) across the entire vehicle lifecycle—from material sourcing and production to use and end-of-life. To achieve it, companies must reduce emissions, manage resources efficiently, transition to low-impact technologies, and ensure fair labor practices across the supply chain. Key steps include GHG accounting, climate strategy development, responsible sourcing, and investment in nature-based solutions. FORLIANCE offers tailored services to help companies take measurable, impactful action at every stage of their sustainability journey.

What does ESG mean for the automotive industry?

ESG—Environmental, Social, and Governance—represents a framework for assessing a company’s impact and responsibility beyond financial performance. In the automotive industry, ESG covers everything from carbon emissions and supply chain ethics to innovation governance and product safety. Strong ESG performance helps companies reduce risks, meet regulatory requirements, attract investment, and build trust with stakeholders. FORLIANCE supports automotive firms in integrating ESG criteria into climate strategy, operations, and reporting—ensuring credibility and compliance in a demanding regulatory environment.

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