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Improvements & Decarbonisation
SBTi (Net Zero)
Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) validation provides independent confirmation that an organisation's emission reduction targets are aligned with climate science — specifically the 1.5°C pathway required to limit global warming under the UNFCCC Paris Agreement.
The SBTi Corporate Net Zero Standard v1.0 requires organisations to set two distinct levels of targets: a near-term SBT (typically to 2030) requiring at least a 42% absolute reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions from a 2020 base year, and a long-term net zero target requiring a minimum 90% reduction across Scope 1, 2, and 3 by no later than 2050. Sector-specific pathways apply under the SBTi Power Sector, FLAG (Forest, Land and Agriculture), Financial Institutions, Steel, Cement, and other methods. SBTi validation is now a prerequisite for inclusion in institutional investor portfolios aligned with the Net Zero Asset Managers initiative, Race to Zero, and many green finance products. CSRD ESRS E1 requires disclosure of SBTi target status. Without SBTi-validated targets, net zero claims lack external verification and are increasingly exposed to greenwashing scrutiny.
Our approach
A structured SBTi commitment, target-setting, and validation process is delivered in line with SBTi Corporate Net Zero Standard v1.0, applicable sector-specific methodologies, and current SBTi validation criteria. The process covers emissions baseline review, near-term and long-term target definition, FLAG guidance application where applicable, and full preparation of the SBTi submission package. The objective is to achieve validated science-based targets efficiently while building the decarbonisation implementation capability required to deliver them.
- Review of GHG Protocol-aligned Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions baseline for SBTi target year selection
- Assessment of applicable SBTi target-setting method: Absolute Contraction, Sectoral Decarbonisation Approach (SDA), or sector-specific pathways
- FLAG guidance application for companies with material land-based emissions (agriculture, forestry, food)
- Near-term SBT definition aligned with 1.5°C pathway (minimum 42% absolute Scope 1 and 2 reduction by 2030)
- Long-term net zero target definition (minimum 90% Scope 1, 2, and 3 reduction by no later than 2050)
- Preparation of SBTi commitment letter, target documentation, and submission package for SBTi validation
- Support through SBTi validation process, including response to clarification requests, and integration with decarbonisation roadmap
Outcomes
SBTi-validated near-term and long-term emission reduction targets aligned with the 1.5°C pathway
Compliance with SBTi Corporate Net Zero Standard v1.0 and applicable sector-specific methodologies
CSRD ESRS E1-aligned disclosure of science-based target status and transition plan foundations
Credibility with institutional investors aligned with Net Zero Asset Managers and Race to Zero initiatives
Clear decarbonisation pathway integrated with SBTi target milestones and reporting cycles
Speak with an expert
The team can walk you through exactly how SBTi (Net Zero) applies to your organisation's context and objectives.
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