Icon plc, headquartered in Ireland (IE), is a leading global provider of outsourced development and commercialisation services to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device industries. Founded in 1990, Icon has established itself as a key player in the clinical research sector, with a strong presence across North America, Europe, and Asia. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including clinical trial management, data analytics, and regulatory consulting, distinguished by its commitment to innovation and quality. Icon's unique approach integrates advanced technology and deep industry expertise, enabling clients to navigate the complexities of drug development efficiently. With a robust portfolio and a reputation for excellence, Icon plc has achieved significant milestones, including numerous successful product launches and partnerships with leading healthcare organisations, solidifying its position as a trusted partner in the life sciences industry.
How does Icon's carbon action stack up? DitchCarbon scores companies based on their carbon action and commitment to reducing emissions. Read about our methodology to learn more.
Mean score of companies in the Research Services industry. Comparing a company's score to the industry average can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
Icon's score of 100 is higher than 100% of the industry. This can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
In 2024, ICON plc reported total greenhouse gas emissions of approximately 361,809,000 kg CO2e. This includes 2,357,000 kg CO2e from Scope 1, 2,469,000 kg CO2e from Scope 2 (market-based), and a significant 356,983,000 kg CO2e from Scope 3 emissions. The company has set ambitious climate commitments, aiming for a 61.2% absolute reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by FY2028 from a FY2019 baseline, and a 90% reduction by FY2050. Additionally, ICON plc targets a 20% reduction in Scope 3 emissions by FY2028 from a FY2022 baseline, with a long-term goal of 90% reduction by FY2050. In 2023, ICON's total emissions were approximately 365,749,000 kg CO2e, with Scope 1 emissions at 2,963,000 kg CO2e, Scope 2 emissions at 5,233,000 kg CO2e (market-based), and Scope 3 emissions at 357,552,000 kg CO2e. The company has consistently disclosed emissions across all scopes, demonstrating transparency in its environmental impact. ICON plc's net-zero commitment encompasses all scopes, with a target year of FY2050, aligning with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) standards. The company's emissions data is sourced directly from ICON Public Limited Company, ensuring accuracy and accountability in its climate reporting.
Access structured emissions data, company-specific emission factors, and source documents
| 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scope 1 | 1,827,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 |
| Scope 2 | 18,812,000 | 00,000,000 | 00,000,000 | 00,000,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 |
| Scope 3 | 36,726,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 |
Icon's Scope 3 emissions, which decreased by 0% last year and increased by approximately 872% since 2018, demonstrating supply chain emissions tracking. Nearly all of their carbon footprint comes from suppliers and value chain emissions, representing nearly all emissions under the GHG Protocol, with "Purchased Goods and Services" being the largest emissions source at 54% of Scope 3 emissions.
Climate goals typically focus on 2030 interim targets and 2050 net-zero commitments, aligned with global frameworks like the Paris Agreement and Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) to ensure alignment with global climate goals.
Icon has established climate goals through participation in recognized frameworks and target-setting initiatives. Companies often set interim 2030 targets and long-term 2050 net-zero goals to demonstrate measurable progress toward decarbonization.

Common questions about Icon's sustainability data and climate commitments