SBTi Finds Indian Companies Shifting From Climate Ambition to Implementation

The Science Based Targets initiative reports that Indian corporate leaders are increasingly focused on how to implement credible climate transition plans rather than debating whether to act, following a series of meetings and events with major Indian businesses. So far, 445 Indian companies have set or committed to setting science-based targets, a figure the SBTi expects to grow as climate action becomes a core business requirement.

During a recent India visit, SBTi representatives met business leaders from large conglomerates managing some of the world's most extensive supply chains and manufacturing networks. A recurring theme was the need for globally recognised climate frameworks that are practical for fast-evolving economies with complex supplier ecosystems. Leaders described operational challenges including engaging vast networks of suppliers — often including thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises — planning long-term capital investments amid policy uncertainty, and balancing rapid economic growth with emissions reduction commitments.

Indian businesses in heavy-emitting industries described active investments in low-carbon technologies and efforts to embed climate considerations more deeply into procurement and capital allocation decisions. Scope 3 emissions, particularly upstream supply chain emissions, were consistently identified as the most significant challenge, given that supplier networks frequently include thousands of small businesses with limited data reporting capabilities. The SBTi acknowledged that no single company can address this challenge alone and indicated that the development of the updated Corporate Net-Zero Standard directly responds to these concerns by introducing clearer implementation pathways and greater flexibility for complex operating environments.

The SBTi noted that if India succeeds in scaling science-based implementation across complex supply chains and high-growth sectors, it could offer valuable lessons for other large emerging economies navigating similar transitions. The updated Corporate Net-Zero Standard Version 2.0's tiered categorisation system, which adjusts requirements based on company size and geography, is particularly relevant for Indian companies at different stages of their sustainability journeys. The SBTi said it plans to continue deepening its engagement with Indian companies and ecosystem partners to support the transition from ambition to measurable action.

Key figure — 445 Indian businesses have set or committed to setting science-based targets