Achieve SBTi validation with a credible, 1.5°C-aligned target

SBTs are a method to strategically reduce greenhouse gas emissions across Scopes 1, 2, and 3. By assessing your emissions data, you establish benchmarks and time-bound targets for required reductions.

The SBTi sets criteria and sector guidance to align with the Paris Agreement and supports ESRS/CSRD-ready disclosure.

Submitting to the SBTi is optional but strategic. The process requires robust data, internal resourcing, and time.

Expert guidance can streamline scoping, data preparation, method selection, and submission.

Use the most recent inventory year as the baseline; earlier baselines may be accepted if latest-year data are included.

• Targets span 5–10 years from submission; baseline year no earlier than 2015.
• 2023 submissions: typical achievement window 2027–2033; include data up to 2021.
• Cover Scopes 1, 2, and 3 where applicable using SBTi-approved methods and sector guidance.

Intensity-based targets measure emissions per unit of activity (e.g., per product or per revenue). They are acceptable if they drive absolute reductions or follow approved sector pathways.

Peak emission targets allow emissions to rise until a defined year before declining; they are not accepted for SBTi validation.

Yes. SMEs have a simplified route; larger companies follow a multi-step process. Minimum ambition typically requires about 4.2% linear annual reduction for Scopes 1–2 and about 2.5% for Scope 3. If Scope 3 exceeds 40% of total emissions, a Scope 3 target is required. The Sectoral Decarbonization Approach (SDA) provides sector-specific pathways.

Benchmarking against peers helps calibrate ambition. Public resources like SBTi’s “Companies Taking Action” provide useful reference points.