SBTi

What is SBTi?

SBTi, or the Science Based Targets initiative, is an organisation that develops standards, tools and guidance to help companies and financial institutions set greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets based on climate science. The SBTi meaning refers to setting measurable emissions reduction targets that align with the levels of decarbonisation needed to address climate change. SBTi targets include near-term emissions reduction targets and longer-term net-zero targets.

Importance of SBTi

SBTi helps organisations turn broad climate commitments into defined and measurable emissions reduction targets. Its standards provide criteria and methodologies for developing targets based on climate science, helping organisations plan and track their decarbonisation efforts. The SBTi net zero approach also provides guidance for organisations setting longer-term targets aligned with reaching net-zero emissions by 2050 at the latest.

Uses of SBTi

SBTi can be used to:

• Set science-based greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets
• Establish near-term SBTi targets with defined emissions reduction timelines
• Develop long-term net-zero targets
• Assess emissions reduction requirements across relevant emissions scopes
• Guide corporate decarbonisation and transition planning
• Use sector-specific guidance when setting targets
• Track progress towards defined emissions reduction goals

Examples of SBTi targets

Examples of SBTi targets include:

• A company setting a near-term target to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions over the next 5 to 10 years
• A company setting targets covering relevant Scope 1, Scope 2 and Scope 3 emissions
• A company establishing a long-term target aligned with achieving net-zero emissions
• A power company setting emissions reduction targets using relevant sector guidance
• A business incorporating emissions reduction targets into its broader decarbonisation strategy