SBTi Launches 2026–2030 Strategy Focused on Corporate Climate Implementation

The Science Based Targets initiative has unveiled its 2026–2030 strategic plan, marking a shift from facilitating target-setting to actively supporting companies in implementing their net-zero commitments. The strategy positions the SBTi as a transformation partner by strengthening data transparency, expanding sector-specific guidance, and reducing fragmentation across climate frameworks.

Over the past decade the SBTi has grown from a goal of engaging 100 companies to a global network of more than 13,000 businesses that have set or committed to science-based targets. The new strategy acknowledges that the core challenge has shifted: companies increasingly know what targets to set, but require clearer pathways, better data, and more actionable guidance to translate ambition into sustained emissions reductions. The SBTi will expand its focus on sector-specific standards that are interoperable with other climate frameworks, aiming to reduce complexity and duplication for companies.

The strategy identifies four priority areas: action-focused standards tailored to company sectors, geographies and operating contexts; a pivot toward implementation support with stronger data transparency and peer-benchmarking; partnerships to reduce fragmentation across the climate ecosystem; and expanded coverage in high-emitting regions and sectors. The SBTi explicitly links science-based targets to commercial value — positioning them as tools for managing transition risk, accessing capital, winning customers, and navigating regulatory expectations rather than purely as credibility signals.

The strategy was developed through interviews and workshops with more than 120 participants across five continents. It is particularly relevant for large emerging markets such as India, where businesses with complex supply chains and high-growth trajectories face distinct implementation challenges. The SBTi intends to deepen engagement in high-emitting regions and facilitate peer learning by sharing real-economy examples of measurable emissions outcomes. Full publication of the theory of change, strategy, and monitoring framework was planned for early 2026.

Key figure — More than 13,000 companies have set or committed to science-based targets