SBTi Target Setting
Align your climate strategy with the Science Based Targets initiative
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Set Emissions Reduction Targets With Confidence
By adopting SBTi-approved targets, companies demonstrate accountability, credibility, and leadership in addressing their greenhouse gas emissions.
Define your SBTi Target Criteria
SBTi’s near-term target criteria
A near-term emissions reduction target should include:
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Must include both Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions.
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Targets span from five to ten years.
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Scope 1 and Scope 2 targets must be aligned with a 1.5°C decarbonization pathway.
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If a company’s Scope 3 emissions are greater than 40% of total emissions, they must set a Scope 3 target.
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Targets must be reviewed and, if necessary, recalculated and revalidated, at least every 5 years.
SBTi’s long-term and net-zero target criteria
Long-term and net-zero emissions reduction target should include:
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Must include both Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, and Scope 3 if more than 40% of total GHG emissions.
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Targets must cover at least 95% of scope 1 & 2 emissions, and at least 90% of scope 3 emissions.
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Target year must be 2050 or sooner.
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Scope 1, 2, and 3 targets must be aligned with a 1.5°C decarbonization pathway.
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Targets must be reviewed and, if necessary, recalculated and revalidated, at least every 5 years.
How to set an SBTi target
Measure Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions in alignment with the GHG Protocol
Choose SBTi-approved target methods (absolute contraction, sectoral decarbonization, FLAG)
Prepare formal submission in SBTi portal and submit for validation
Embed approved targets into strategy, frameworks, and communications
Reassess targets every 5 years, or sooner if operations materially change
Deliverables Designed for Success
Customized emissions reduction plan with near-term and long-term targets
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Support with SBTi submission and target validation, including submission preparation and ongoing support during SBTi validation process
Customized emissions reduction plan with near-term and long-term targets
Companies with validated SBTi targets send a clear signal: we’re committed to creating long-term value in a decarbonized economy.
Annie Roberts
Senior Vice President - Climate ConsultingUnderstanding the Mission
Science-based targets are in line with what climate science deems necessary to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement and limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
Science-based targets are validated by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi). The SBTi began as a partnership between CDP, the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), the World Resources Institute (WRI), and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).
Typically 30 to 90 days, depending on data availability, company size, and the complexity of emissions sources.
SBTi complements them. Targets validated by SBTi strengthen your climate disclosures, improving scores and credibility, and building trust with external stakeholders regarding your company’s commitment to climate action.
You must integrate them into corporate strategy, disclose them publicly, and track/report progress annually. Regular reviews ensure continued alignment with science.
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November 12, 2025 
