Navigating SBTi in Practice

Shivali Patel

10 years: Sustainability Consultant

In this video, Shivali explores the real-world challenges companies face when implementing science-based targets and how to overcome them. She breaks down the common hurdles like technical complexity, Scope 3 emissions, costs, and internal resistance and shares practical strategies to address them. She also explains why balancing short- and long-term goals is critical, and how flexibility helps companies adapt as conditions evolve.

Regulation and Initiatives

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Navigating SBTi in Practice

10 mins 2 secs

Key learning objectives:

Identify common challenges companies face when implementing science-based targets
Understand key practical considerations for businesses in the SBTi process
Outline strategies for overcoming obstacles in target-setting and implementation

Overview:

Science-based targets are becoming a business standard, not just for compliance but to unlock investment, manage risk, and attract talent. Yet challenges remain: technical complexity, internal resistance, cost, and especially Scope 3 emissions. Companies must plan carefully: build strong data systems, secure leadership buy-in, and collaborate across their value chains. Balancing short- and long-term goals is key, as is using sector-specific guidance. Flexibility is vital, climate plans must evolve. The process isn’t easy, but the rewards are substantial: resilience, reputation, regulatory readiness, and genuine climate leadership. With the right mindset and strategy, companies can meet the moment, and the science.

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Summary

What are the most common challenges companies face when implementing science-based targets?

The biggest challenges include technical complexity, particularly with Scope 3 emissions; the upfront costs of data systems and external support; internal resistance due to perceived risks; and difficulties in measuring and reporting supply chain emissions. These barriers require strategic planning and clear communication across the business to overcome. Companies must also align with sector guidance and anticipate regulatory changes, making this a multifaceted and resource-intensive process.

How can businesses overcome internal resistance to ambitious climate targets?

Internal resistance is common, especially from teams concerned about operational or financial impacts. The solution lies in leadership engagement and transparent communication. Identifying internal champions who can frame climate action as a business opportunity helps shift mindsets. Showing how targets benefit departments, such as protecting supply chains, enhancing brand credibility, and attracting talent, turns abstract goals into shared priorities. Early, authentic buy-in accelerates everything.

Why is Scope 3 emissions measurement such a significant challenge?

Scope 3 emissions come from across the value chain, suppliers, product use, and transportation, which makes them complex to track. Data is often inconsistent, unavailable, or hard to verify. Without supplier collaboration and standardised methods, companies risk underreporting or double-counting. Engaging priority suppliers early and sharing tools or frameworks can greatly improve accuracy and consistency across emissions data.

What practical steps can companies take to improve success in the SBTi process?

Start with strong data infrastructure, use consistent methodologies and trusted systems. Develop a clear roadmap that includes short-term milestones alongside long-term targets. Collaborate with suppliers, especially for Scope 3, and lean into sector-specific SBTi guidance. Build in flexibility to adapt to change. Most importantly, approach this as a learning journey; SBT success doesn’t demand perfection, but progress, credibility, and commitment.

Why are short-term targets just as important as long-term ones?

Short-term goals provide proof of action. They keep momentum high, engage employees, and signal seriousness to investors and regulators. While long-term goals show ambition, near-term milestones demonstrate delivery. Setting realistic, measurable targets in the short run helps maintain trust and ensures climate commitments turn into tangible outcomes.

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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.

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