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Rebuilding Trust in Net-Zero Targets - Five Structural Shifts in the SBTi Draft Corporate Net-Zero Standard and What They Could Deliver

The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has become the leading global standard-setter for corporate climate action.

Author(s):

Frédéric Ducoulombier

Summary:

The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has become the leading global standard-setter for corporate climate action.

More than 7,500 companies—representing a majority of global stock market capitalisation—have had near-term emissions reduction targets validated by the SBTi. These typically span 5–10 years and align with pathways consistent with the Paris Agreement. Over 1,600 companies have taken a further step by adopting targets under the more demanding SBTi Corporate Net-Zero Standard.

As concerns have mounted over the credibility, integrity, and effectiveness of climate pledges—and in the wake of a governance crisis—the SBTi has released a draft update to its Net-Zero Standard aimed at closing loopholes, clarifying controversial issues, and strengthening oversight.

This briefing examines five major structural shifts proposed in the draft and explores how these changes could help reinforce target integrity, increase corporate accountability, and more effectively link net-zero ambitions with real-world emissions reductions.

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Type : EDHEC Publication
Date : 18/04/2025