SBTi Releases Science-Based Decarbonisation Pathways for Chemicals Sector

The Science Based Targets initiative has published the Chemical Sector Pathways and Implementation Criteria, providing the chemicals industry with science-based decarbonisation trajectories and target-setting guidance aligned with the Corporate Net-Zero Standard. The resources cover the most emissions-intensive activities in the sector, including primary chemicals such as ammonia, methanol and high-value chemicals, as well as nitrous oxide emissions and nitrogen fertiliser applications.

The chemicals sector is the largest industrial energy consumer and the third highest industrial source of global carbon emissions. As 95% of manufactured products rely on chemicals, the sector underpins virtually the entire global economy. The new pathways include separate science-based decarbonisation trajectories for primary chemicals production, nitrous oxide from nitric acid manufacturing, non-primary chemicals production, use-phase nitrous oxide from nitrogen fertilisers, and a pathway to increase the use of alternative feedstocks. Companies in the sector can use these pathways alongside the Corporate Net-Zero Standard and Corporate Near-Term Criteria to set targets aligned with net-zero business models.

The Chemical Sector Pathways were developed through two public consultations, pilot testing and input from a dedicated Expert Advisory Group. The framework follows a streamlined structure intended to make target-setting easier to understand and apply, while maintaining alignment with global climate science. The SBTi's Chief Technical Officer Alberto Carrillo Pineda said the criteria define specific pathways outlining how much and how quickly companies must reduce emissions to align with international climate goals, enabling companies to align climate strategies and confidently navigate the net-zero transition.

India's chemicals sector — one of the largest in Asia, with major production hubs in Gujarat, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, and a significant global footprint in agrochemicals, specialty chemicals and petrochemicals — has a direct interest in the pathway frameworks. International buyers and investors are increasingly requiring chemical manufacturers to demonstrate alignment with science-based targets. The SBTi positions the new criteria as tools that unlock innovation, efficiency and long-term business value for companies navigating a rapidly changing regulatory and market environment.

Key figure — 95% of manufactured products globally depend on the chemicals sector