Science Based Targets initiative
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) provides a framework for companies to set emission reduction targets aligned with the Paris Agreement. SBTi validates that a company's targets are consistent with limiting global warming to 1.5°C or well-below 2°C. Over 4,000 companies globally have committed, with 900+ UK businesses.
Who needs to comply
Any company that commits to SBTi — no size threshold. SME route available for companies with fewer than 500 employees.
Commitment letter
Submit a commitment letter to SBTi signalling intent to set science-based targets
Target development
Develop near-term (5-10 year) and long-term (by 2050) emission reduction targets covering Scope 1, 2, and 3
Validation
Submit targets to SBTi for independent validation against their criteria (within 24 months of commitment)
Companies must cover at least 95% of Scope 1 & 2 emissions and 67% of Scope 3 (if Scope 3 is >40% of total) in their targets.
What's required
The key disclosure and reporting requirements under SBTi.
Complete Scope 1, 2, and 3 greenhouse gas inventory (base year)
Near-term science-based targets (5-10 year horizon)
Long-term targets consistent with net-zero by 2050
Annual disclosure of emissions and progress (typically via CDP)
Scope 3 screening across all 15 categories
Recalculation of base year if significant structural changes occur
How Climatise automates SBTi compliance
From raw data to audit-ready report — fully automated.
Full Scope 1, 2 & 3 Inventory
Complete greenhouse gas inventory across all scopes — the foundation SBTi requires for target setting and validation.
Target Modelling & Tracking
Model reduction pathways aligned with 1.5°C scenarios and track annual progress against your committed targets.
CDP-Ready Annual Disclosure
Generate the annual emissions data and progress reports needed for CDP disclosure — the standard SBTi reporting channel.
Scope 3 Screening
Screen all 15 Scope 3 categories to identify material sources — essential for SBTi target boundary decisions.
Frequently asked questions
The Science Based Targets initiative is a partnership between CDP, the UN Global Compact, WRI, and WWF. It provides a framework and validation service for corporate emission reduction targets aligned with climate science. Companies commit publicly, develop targets, and submit them for independent validation.
You need a comprehensive Scope 1, 2, and 3 greenhouse gas inventory for your base year. SBTi requires targets covering at least 95% of Scope 1 & 2 emissions. If Scope 3 is more than 40% of your total footprint, you must also set a Scope 3 target covering at least 67% of those emissions.
You have 24 months from submitting your commitment letter to submit validated targets. If you miss this deadline, your commitment is removed from the SBTi website. Climatise helps you build the emissions inventory and model targets within this window.
SBTi itself is voluntary. However, many procurement processes, investor expectations, and industry initiatives now effectively require or strongly incentivise SBTi commitment. Some frameworks (like CDP) score more favourably if you have validated science-based targets.
Related regulations
Explore other frameworks Climatise helps you comply with.
Automate your SBTi compliance
From raw data to audit-ready SBTi report in minutes. See how Climatise can save your team weeks of work.
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