Icon plc, headquartered in Ireland (IE), is a leading player in the research and development services industry, specifically within the realm of clinical research. Founded in 1990, Icon has established itself as a trusted partner for pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies, offering a comprehensive suite of services that span the entire drug development lifecycle.
With a strong presence in North America, Europe, and Asia, Icon excels in providing innovative solutions that enhance clinical trial efficiency and patient engagement. Their core offerings include clinical trial management, regulatory consulting, and data analytics, all designed to streamline the development process and improve outcomes. Icon's commitment to quality and innovation has positioned it as a market leader, recognised for its ability to adapt to the evolving needs of the healthcare sector.
+45 vs industry average
Icon’s score of 75 is higher than 83% of the industry. This can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
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Industry Intensity
Research Services has typical carbon intensity
Industry performance
The Research Services industry has reduced its overall emissions by 19% since 2018
Emissions trajectory 2020 – 2027
Reported emissions
Scope 3 accounts for ••• of total emissions.
Icon's reported carbon emissions
ICON plc, headquartered in Ireland and operating in the Research and development services (73) sector, reported total carbon emissions of approximately 361.8 million kg CO2e for the year 2024. This total comprises approximately 2.4 million kg CO2e from Scope 1 emissions, and approximately 2.5 million kg CO2e from Scope 2 (market-based) emissions. Scope 3 emissions accounted for the largest portion, totalling approximately 357.0 million kg CO2e. Significant contributors to Scope 3 emissions include purchased goods and services (approximately 191.0 million kg CO2e) and business travel (approximately 60.7 million kg CO2e).
ICON plc has established ambitious climate commitments, including a commitment to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its value chain by FY2050, as validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).
Near-term reduction targets are in place, aiming for a 61.2% absolute reduction in Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by FY2028, using a FY2019 baseline. For Scope 3 emissions, ICON plc aims for a 20.0% absolute reduction by FY2028, from a FY2022 base year. Long-term, the company targets a 90.0% absolute reduction in Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by FY2050 from a FY2019 base year, and a 90.0% absolute reduction in Scope 3 GHG emissions by FY2050 from a FY2022 base year. Progress reports indicate that the company is on track for near-term Scope 2 and Scope 3 reduction targets.
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Icon’s Climate Goals (2030 & 2050)
1 goal2028
61.2% reduction in all scopes
Scopes 1 and 2 GHG emissions 61.2% absolute reduction by FY2028 from a FY2019 base year Progress: 70.06% decrease in Scope 1 & 2 emissions c…
2030
62% reduction in total GHG
Vs 2019 baseline. Validated by SBTi. Includes full supply chain.
2040
50% reduction in Scope 3 intensity
Across purchased goods and services and logistics.
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Scope 3 top emissions categories
8 of 15 categories disclosedSee all scope 3 categories
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Climate initiatives

Science Based Targets Initiative

Carbon Disclosure Project
The Climate Pledge
UN Global Compact Climate Champions initiative
RE 100
Climate Action 100
Emissions comparison with industry peers
View similar organisationsFrequently asked questions
Common questions about Icon’s sustainability data and climate commitments
Data year: 2024
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