SBTi publishes first global register of certified target-setting professionals
On September 30, 2025, the Science Based Targets initiative published its first official global register of certified target-setting professionals and launched the SBTi Academy e-learning platform. Indian companies setting science-based targets gain a trusted external resource to source verified technical expertise as demand for green talent outstrips supply.
On September 30, 2025, the Science Based Targets initiative published the first official global register of certified target-setting professionals, alongside the launch of the SBTi Academy e-learning platform. Certified experts completed a seven-part assessment demonstrating proficiency in greenhouse gas inventory assessment and target modelling. The Academy launched with three hubs: a free Onboarding Hub for beginners, a Practitioners' Hub covering GHG Protocol applications and net-zero strategies, and a Certification Hub for professionals seeking formal target-setting credentials. The measures respond to surging global demand for specialised sustainability skills.
The initiative affects companies across all sectors attempting to set science-based targets but constrained by skills shortages. According to platform launch data, global demand for green talent rose 11.6% while supply of skilled professionals grew only 5.6%, outpacing supply twofold. Surveys found 76% of businesses identified a lack of early-stage skills as their greatest internal upskilling challenge, and 68% of sustainability leaders were hired internally as homegrown talent, underscoring the capacity gap affecting corporate decarbonisation planning.
Companies pursuing science-based targets should consult the public register to source verified external expertise for decarbonisation projects and direct staff to the appropriate Academy hub based on skill level. Beginners can access the free Onboarding Hub, while practitioners and aspiring certified experts can use the Practitioners' and Certification Hubs. Tracy Wyman, SBTi Chief Impact Officer, framed the Academy as bridging the skills gap, enabling firms to overcome a common barrier to setting and executing credible targets.
Key figure — Talent gap: green talent demand rose 11.6% versus 5.6% supply growth (2x shortfall)
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