Standards and Initiatives

Science Based Targets Initiative

The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is a joint initiative by CDP, UN Global Compact, WWF, and WRI that enables businesses to take swift climate action by setting ambitious emissions reduction targets.

What is SBTi?

The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is a collaborative effort that helps companies reduce greenhouse gas emissions by providing sector-specific guidance. Thus, it enables companies to showcase their commitment to climate action by publicly pledging to adopt targets in line with the latest science.

Over 7,000 companies have now established climate targets. These goals are deemed "science-based" when they align with the measures required to limit global warming under 1.5°C,  as outlined by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

The first net zero standard for companies

The SBTi’s Corporate Net-Zero Standard is the world’s first framework for corporate net-zero target setting in line with climate science. It includes the criteria and recommendations companies need to set science-based net-zero targets consistent with limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C. 

Sector-specific guidance

SBTi's develops sector-specific guidance to provide companies with practical recommendations on how to set science-based targets that factor in their sector's unique challenges and characteristics. These documents identify the most effective strategies to lower greenhouse gas emissions in a range of industries, from apparel and footwear to transport,

SBTi aims to empower businesses to make informed decisions and take targeted actions, accelerating the transition to a more sustainable and climate-resilient global economy.

Over 4,000 companies have now approved science-based targets, while many more have submitted their goals for SBTi approval. Science-based target setting is already becoming part of the annual reporting practice of companies through incorporation in the CDP questionnaire and scoring.

Focus on supply chain emissions

The SBTi criteria have increased focus on Scope 3 emissions, with specific requirements for companies with 40% or more of their located in their supply chain. Typically, the bulk of these emissions are related to the supply chain, thus engaging with their suppliers becomes key to having SBTs approved and reaching the targets.

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