Shareholders at defence contractors Lockheed Martin and RTX’s have backed proposals requesting the disclosure of plans to reduce full value-chain emissions to align with the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C goal. More than 30% of Lockheed’s shareholders, and 25% of RTX’s supported proposals filed by US shareholder advocacy group As You Sow, echoing the strong support that similar proposals received last year. In 2022, the US Army published its first-ever climate strategy, which stated that “climate readiness is mission readiness”. By announcing sustainable procurement rules last month, the US government also sent a strong signal that it is seeking high-performing companies demonstrating resiliency and climate readiness in their contracts. “The US military is committed to decarbonisation, and this commitment extends to its contractors,” said Danielle Fugere, President and Chief Counsel at As You Sow. “Without climate-related financial disclosures, investors lack insight into how these companies are addressing major emissions that pose serious risks. Shareholders see these proposals as a critical step in remaining competitive in an evolving market and climate that prioritises climate-readiness.” Boeing shareholders are set to vote on a similar climate-focused proposal on 17 May.
