Science Based Target Initiative (SBTi)
Net Zero can only be achieved through a combination of reductions and removals. We’ll help you to design and execute a winning strategy that combines both.
Science-based targets (SBTs) are ambitious goals set by companies to reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in line with the latest climate science. These targets are designed to align with the goals of the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
SBTs are based on the concept of carbon budgets, which represent the amount of GHG emissions that can be released into the atmosphere while still maintaining a safe level of global warming. These budgets are calculated using complex climate models and take into account various factors such as historical emissions, future emissions projections, and the desired temperature targets.
Companies that commit to SBTs undergo a rigorous process to set their targets. This includes assessing their current emissions, identifying reduction opportunities, and developing a roadmap to achieve the targets. SBTs typically cover emissions across the company's value chain, including direct emissions from operations (Scope 1), indirect emissions from purchased electricity (Scope 2), and emissions from the value chain (Scope 3).
By adopting SBTs, companies demonstrate their commitment to addressing climate change and taking responsibility for their environmental impact. Achieving these targets requires implementing sustainable practices, investing in renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, and collaborating with suppliers and partners to reduce emissions throughout the value chain.
SBTs offer numerous benefits to companies beyond environmental impact. They can drive innovation, enhance reputation, and attract investors and customers who are increasingly prioritizing sustainability. Additionally, setting SBTs can help companies manage regulatory risks, anticipate market trends, and improve operational efficiency.
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is a collaborative effort between CDP, the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI), and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). The SBTi provides guidance and verification for companies setting SBTs, ensuring that the targets are scientifically robust and aligned with climate goals.
In conclusion, science-based targets provide a framework for companies to align their emissions reduction efforts with climate science and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change. By setting and achieving these targets, companies can play a significant role in transitioning to a low-carbon economy and creating a sustainable future.
Frequently asked questions
Find answers to commonly asked questions about our services and initiatives.
What are science-based targets?
Science-based targets provide organisations with a clear, measurable pathway for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in line with climate science. They define the scale and pace of emissions reductions needed to support efforts to limit global warming to 1.5°C.
What is the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)?
The Science Based Targets initiative is a collaborative effort between CDP, the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute and the World Wide Fund for Nature. It helps companies set and achieve ambitious greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets in line with scientific global climate goals.
How can OCW support my organisation with setting science-based targets?
Once your organisation has quantified its greenhouse gas emissions and, where relevant, carbon removals, OCW can support you in setting credible near- and long-term science-based targets. We can help identify and apply appropriate target-setting pathways and methodologies tailored to your organisation’s sector, activities and emissions profile, providing a clear pathway for reducing emissions over time.
What is net zero and why should organisations work towards it?
Net zero refers to a state in which greenhouse gas emissions released into the atmosphere are balanced by greenhouse gas removals. For organisations, net zero is primarily about reducing greenhouse gas emissions as deeply as possible across operations and the value chain, then addressing residual emissions through appropriate carbon removals.
Working towards net zero gives organisations a structured approach to measuring, reducing and managing their emissions. It can also help them prepare for the transition to a net-zero economy, respond to evolving stakeholder and regulatory expectations, manage climate-related risks and identify opportunities to improve energy and resource efficiency.
Product Carbon Footprints
Need to understand the footprint of a specific product? We turn your product and supplier data into a clear carbon footprint, showing where emissions occur and giving you the evidence needed to respond to customers, reporting requests and reduction priorities.