What Are Science-Based Targets (SBTs)?

Science-based targets (SBTs) are measurable, time-bound goals set by companies and organisations to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in line with the latest climate science. These targets align with the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, ideally limiting warming to 1.5°C.

The Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) is the leading organisation that provides businesses with the framework for setting and validating their targets.

The Key Features of Science-Based Targets

1. They are aligned with Climate Science and are based on rigorous scientific research from organisations such as the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and leading academics in the field.

2. They Provide Clear Emission Reduction Pathways, essentially a roadmap for businesses to cut emissions within a specific timeframe, ensuring accountability and facilitating stakeholder scrutiny.

3. They Are Sector-Specific because different industries follow tailored approaches to meet emission reduction goals.

4. They Require A Long-Term Commitment underpinned by appropriate short-term targets.

Types of Science-Based Targets

1. Near-Term Targets (5-10 years) focus on immediate emission cuts in line with the 1.5°C pathway.

2. Net-Zero Targets (by 2050 or sooner) require significant decarbonization with limited reliance on carbon offsets.

Key Areas of Emission Reduction:

• Scope 1 – Direct emissions from owned/controlled sources (e.g., company vehicles, factories).

• Scope 2 – Indirect emissions from purchased electricity, steam, heating, and cooling.

• Scope 3 – All other indirect emissions, including supply chain, business travel, and product use.

Science-Based Targets are important because they drive corporate accountability and climate action, reduce risks related to regulatory changes and reputational damage, unlock economic opportunities through innovation and efficiency, provide evidence that you support global efforts to avoid the most catastrophic impacts of climate change

How To Set SBTs

Setting SBTs involves a structured process to ensure that a company's emission reduction goals are aligned with climate science. The general steps require an organisation to:

1. Submit a letter to the SBTi declaring an intent to set a science-based target.

2. Calculate their Scope emissions and develop targets in line with SBTi criteria.

3. Present the targets to the SBTi for official validation.

4. Announce the targets publicly and communicate them to stakeholders.

5. Regularly report progress towards achieving the targets.

By setting and pursuing SBTs, companies not only contribute to global climate goals but also enhance their resilience, innovation, and reputation in a transitioning economy. Over 4,000 companies worldwide have committed to SBTs.

What Can We Help You With?

We can help you to:

• Establish your SBTs

• Develop your sustainability strategy, including developing a pragmatic carbon reductions programme.

• Reduce waste

• Benefit from the circular economy

• Calculate your carbon footprint, and to update the results at times of your choosing.

• Integrate your sustainability strategy into your risk management framework.

• Integrate sustainability as part of business as usual. 

 To find out how you can benefit from incorporating SBTs into your climate change programmes schedule a call with us