Introduction to Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi)

Shivali Patel

10 years: Sustainability Consultant

In this video, Shivali explains the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and how it provides businesses with a clear, science-backed roadmap to reach net zero. She outlines why the SBTi was created, how the net zero standard ensures credible climate action, and the strategic business benefits of setting science-based targets from reducing risks and costs to strengthening brand reputation and investor confidence. She also shares real-world examples of companies across energy, finance, SMEs, and non-profits that are aligning with global climate goals, showing how the SBTi can turn climate ambition into measurable, future-proofed action.

Regulation and Initiatives

Subscribe to watch

Access this and all of the content on our platform by signing up for a 7-day free trial.

Introduction to Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi)

11 mins 59 secs

Key learning objectives:

Understand the purpose and goals of the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi)
Outline the business benefits of setting science-based targets
Identify eligibility criteria for SBTi participation

Overview:

The Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) gives businesses a clear, science-backed roadmap to reach net zero. It ensures emissions reduction efforts align with the latest climate science and global climate goals. The SBTi Net-Zero Standard sets short- and long-term targets focused on cutting emissions within a company’s operations and value chain, not relying on offsets. Adopting SBTs helps businesses reduce climate risk, boost efficiency, improve brand reputation, and stay ahead of regulations. Open to companies of all sizes and sectors, SBTi turns climate ambition into credible action, making it a strategic, future-proofing move in today’s low-carbon economy.

Subscribe to watch

Access this and all of the content on our platform by signing up for a 7-day free trial.

Summary

What is the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) and why was it created?

The SBTi is a global partnership that provides companies with science-aligned pathways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with the Paris Agreement. It was created to ensure business climate targets are grounded in the latest science rather than arbitrary goals. By aligning with the global carbon budget, the SBTi helps companies take measurable, transparent climate action that contributes to limiting warming to 1.5°C.

How does the SBTi Net-Zero Standard guide companies toward credible climate action?

The Net-Zero Standard outlines how much and how quickly companies must cut emissions to align with global climate goals. It sets both near- and long-term targets focused on reducing emissions within a company's own operations and value chain, limiting reliance on carbon offsets. This ensures that climate commitments are credible and measurable, with a clear focus on real operational change.

Why do science-based targets matter for business strategy and long-term success?

Science-based targets help businesses stay ahead of regulatory shifts, reduce operational costs, and improve brand reputation. They also attract investors, build consumer trust, and increase competitiveness. Companies that act early gain a strategic advantage while helping mitigate the economic risks of climate change. As a result, SBTs are a smart move both environmentally and financially.

Who can set science-based targets and what are some examples across sectors?

The SBTi is open to corporates, SMEs, financial institutions, and even non-profits. For example, Orsted, a Danish energy company, is cutting emissions across its energy portfolio. Carbonbit, an SME, has committed to full value-chain decarbonisation. Schroders, a financial firm, is aligning its investments with 1.5°C goals. Cancer Research UK is reducing emissions across its operations and supply chain, showing how broad and inclusive the SBTi framework is.

Subscribe to watch

Access this and all of the content on our platform by signing up for a 7-day free trial.

Shivali Patel

Shivali Patel is a sustainability consultant and circular economy expert with a focus on consumer industries. She has assisted clients in integrating circularity and net zero considerations into their strategies and delivering end-to-end transformation initiatives as a consultant for Deloitte and an independent.

There are no available Videos from "Shivali Patel"