Aligning with the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi)
Learn more about SBTi and how the growing demand for climate action can benefit your business.
With rising demands for climate action, companies are under pressure to set credible greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets. The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) provides a globally recognised framework that helps companies align their targets with climate science, ensuring they contribute meaningfully to the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C.
What is the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)?
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is an internationally recognised organisation that validates companies’ greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets as “science-based.” This means that the targets are consistent with climate science and support the 2015 Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to no more than 1.5°C and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The SBTi provides guidance, tools, and standards to help companies across various sectors set both near-term and long-term emission reduction goals that align with these global objectives.
Why should companies align with the SBTi?
Aligning with the SBTi can offer companies a competitive advantage as it positions them as leaders in sustainability. Having SBTi-validated GHG emissions reduction targets demonstrates that a company’s commitments are rooted in scientific best-practice standards, helping to protect its reputation from claims of “greenwashing” and instilling confidence in investors, consumers, and suppliers. This transparency and commitment to environmental responsibility can drive business growth and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders.
How to prepare for alignment?
To align with the SBTi, companies must follow specific steps centered around transparency and comprehensive GHG emissions reporting.
- Conduct a Scope 1, 2 and 3 GHG Assessment
Companies must perform a full GHG assessment, calculating emissions across Scopes 1, 2 and 3 following the internationally recognised GHG Protocol. This includes a complete GHG inventory supported by detailed calculation methodologies and data evidence,covering emissions from direct operations (Scope 1), purchased energy (Scope 2), and the wider value chain (Scope 3). - Set Science-Based Targets
After establishing a GHG emissions baseline, companies must then set near-term and long-term reduction targets that align with the SBTi criteria. Near-term targets typically cover a 5–10-year period and address emissions in Scopes 1 and 2, while long-term targets aim for substantial emissions reductions by 2050 across all scopes. For companies where Scope 3 emissions represent over 40% of total emissions, Scope 3 near-term targets must also be set to cover at least 67% of Scope 3 emissions. To meet net-zero standards, companies must commit to reducing at least 90-95% of Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions by 2050.
How NUS Can Support Your Business
NUS’ Energy and Sustainability Services (ESS) team offers step-by-step support to guide companies through the process of aligning with the SBTi:
- Data Collection
The ESS team organises workshops and meetings to guide stakeholders through data collection for all applicable Scope 1, 2 and 3 categories. NUS provide custom data collection templates tailored to the company’s operations and offer advice on data quality standards that meet SBTi’s requirements. - GHG Emissions Calculation
NUS’ experienced analysts conduct detailed GHG assessments, calculating Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions in line with the GHG Protocol, the international leading standard for calculating and reporting GHG emissions. The GHG assessment will provide a comprehensive breakdown of emissions, supported by transparent calculation methodologies to ensure third-party verification and auditing readiness. - Target Setting
Once the baseline is established, NUS helps companies develop “science-based” targets suitable for their specific operations and aligned with climate science. This includes setting near-term and long-term targets in line with SBTi criteria. - Application Process
NUS’ specialists also assist with the SBTi application process, ensuring that all required data and documentation are accurately submitted to meet SBTi’s validation requirements.
Develop a Decarbonisation Strategy
One of NUS’ area of expertise is developing tailored decarbonisation strategies that are suited to a company’s corporate and sustainability goals. The strategies provide key insight into the possible decarbonisation levers that are feasible from an energy market, technical, legal and regulatory basis across the company’s complete international portfolio. Carbon and financial modelling are included to create a bespoke company-wide action plan to reach key milestones and targets.
Going Beyond
Companies aligning with the SBTi require suitable action plans for decarbonisation in order to meet targets. NUS provide a range of supporting sustainability services to directly enable rapid decarbonisation and long-term strategy implementation. The ESS team help companies identify energy efficiency measures via on-site energy audits and implement tailored decarbonisation solutions (including solar PV, heat pumps, electrification etc). The team are experienced in various compliance schemes such as the CSRD and Energy Efficiency Directive (EED), and have developed a Carbon Footprint Dashboard tool to streamline the visualisation of GHG emissions in efforts to ensure continuous progress toward climate goals.
For further information please contact us.
