Universal Music Group (UMG), a leading entity in the global music industry, is headquartered in the Netherlands (NL) and operates extensively across major regions, including North America, Europe, and Asia. Founded in 1934, UMG has evolved into a powerhouse, representing a diverse array of artists and genres, from pop and rock to classical and hip-hop. The company excels in music publishing, recorded music, and merchandising, offering unique services that cater to both established and emerging talent. UMG's innovative approach to artist development and digital distribution has solidified its market position, making it a key player in the ever-evolving music landscape. With numerous accolades and a rich catalogue of iconic recordings, Universal Music continues to shape the future of music worldwide.
How does Universal Music'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 Business 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.
Universal Music's score of 80 is higher than 89% of the industry. This can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
In 2024, Universal Music Group N.V. reported total carbon emissions of approximately 627,420,000 kg CO2e. This includes 1,797,000 kg CO2e from Scope 1 emissions, 6,467,000 kg CO2e from Scope 2 emissions, and a significant 619,156,000 kg CO2e from Scope 3 emissions. The Scope 3 emissions encompass various categories, with the largest contributions from purchased goods and services (approximately 327,454,000 kg CO2e) and upstream transportation and distribution (about 90,880,000 kg CO2e). Universal Music has set ambitious climate commitments, aiming to reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 58% by 2032 from a 2019 baseline. Additionally, the company targets a 62% reduction in Scope 3 emissions per EUR value added within the same timeframe. These targets are validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), aligning with the goal to limit global warming to 1.5°C. Looking ahead, Universal Music has committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its value chain by 2040. This long-term strategy includes further reductions of 90% in absolute Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2040, alongside a 97% reduction in Scope 3 emissions per million USD value added. Overall, Universal Music's climate strategy reflects a proactive approach to addressing its carbon footprint, with clear targets and a commitment to sustainability in the music industry.
Access structured emissions data, company-specific emission factors, and source documents
| 2019 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scope 1 | 4,441,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 |
| Scope 2 | 7,013,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 |
| Scope 3 | 530,824,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 | 000,000,000 |
Universal Music's Scope 3 emissions, which increased by 32% last year and increased by approximately 17% since 2019, 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 53% 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.
Universal Music 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 Universal Music's sustainability data and climate commitments