Adopting Science Based Targets (SBT) can feel overwhelming for industrial companies striving to meet sustainability goals, but with a clear strategy, the transition can be seamless. This guide provides decision-makers with a step-by-step framework to understand and implement SBT processes, ensuring compliance while positioning their businesses for long-term success.
SBT offers a structured framework for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in alignment with climate science. These targets are designed to limit global warming to well below 2°C, in line with the Paris Agreement. By aligning with SBT, companies demonstrate meaningful climate action, enhancing their sustainability credentials, investor confidence, and consumer trust. Beyond compliance, adopting SBT fosters innovation, efficiency, and long-term operational resilience.
A gap analysis identifies where your company’s operations align with SBT requirements and where improvements are needed. Begin with a comprehensive emissions audit covering Scopes 1, 2, and 3 to understand your emissions sources. Prioritise high-impact areas such as energy-intensive processes or supply chain emissions. Benchmark your performance against industry standards and review current policies to assess their alignment with SBT. Engaging stakeholders across departments ensures a holistic view of opportunities and challenges.
Successful integration of SBT requires a well-defined plan:
• Set Clear Objectives: Align SBT goals with broader business ambitions, defining actionable targets and measurable outcomes.
• Create a Roadmap: Develop a detailed plan with milestones, deadlines, and responsibilities to guide the implementation process.
• Leverage Technology: Invest in data management systems, energy-efficient technologies, and software tools to streamline emissions tracking and analysis.
• Foster Collaboration: Involve all departments to ensure sustainability becomes a cross-functional effort.
• Manage Risks: Anticipate challenges and establish contingency plans to maintain momentum.
• Commit to Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and optimise strategies, adapting to new developments and insights.
Advanced technologies simplify emissions tracking, enhance efficiency, and support compliance. Emissions tracking software integrates data from multiple sources, providing a comprehensive view of greenhouse gas output. Energy management systems optimise power usage, while AI and predictive analytics forecast trends and identify potential issues. IoT devices and blockchain can ensure real-time monitoring and transparent reporting, further strengthening sustainability initiatives.
An informed workforce is critical to achieving sustainability goals. Implement training programmes to educate employees about SBT and their role in achieving targets. Assign responsibilities, promote continuous learning, and recognise contributions to sustainability efforts. Building a culture of shared accountability ensures long-term commitment and engagement.
Successfully adopting SBT processes requires effective change management. Transparent communication about the benefits of SBT, collaborative planning, and phased implementation can ease transitions. Leadership commitment, combined with regular progress monitoring and celebration of milestones, helps maintain momentum and motivation throughout the organisation.
Accurate tracking and transparent reporting ensure accountability and continuous improvement. Define clear KPIs, use robust data systems, and conduct regular progress reviews. Transparent reporting builds trust with stakeholders and identifies areas for further optimisation. Technologies like cloud computing and AI streamline data analysis, while compliance audits verify alignment with regulations and standards.
• Data Management: Invest in robust systems and expertise to ensure accurate data collection.
• Stakeholder Resistance: Engage stakeholders early, clearly communicate benefits, and address concerns collaboratively.
• Technical Expertise: Hire or train staff and collaborate with external experts to address technical gaps.
• Regulatory Compliance: Stay informed and implement compliance management systems to handle evolving regulations.
• Maintaining Momentum: Refresh goals, celebrate successes, and embed SBT into core business strategies for sustained commitment.
Integrating SBT into corporate strategies is not just about meeting compliance requirements—it’s a progressive approach to tackling one of the greatest challenges facing industry. Companies that embed sustainability into their operations gain resilience, foster innovation, and strengthen their competitive edge in an evolving global market.