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SBTi data, methods and strategies

To determine if a target is science-based, our team of experts will review your submission, validate it against our science-based criteria and communicate their decision and detailed feedback.

The SBTi released the criteria version 5.0 at the end of 2021. These new criteria came into effect on July 15, 2022.

The SBTi made several changes to its criteria for near-term targets. These include:

• Increasing the minimum scope 1 and 2 ambition temperature classification from well below 2°C to 1.5°C.

• Increasing the minimum scope 3 ambition temperature classification from 2°C to well below 2°C.

• Shortening the time-frame for targets from 15 to 10 years.

Companies are able to set near-term scope 3 emission reduction targets aligned to either of the following options:

1. Absolute contraction in line with 1.5°C or well-below 2°C.

2. Sectoral Decarbonization Approach in line with 1.5°C or well-below 2°C.

3. Supplier Engagement Targets.

4. Economic Intensity Targets.

5. Physical Intensity Targets.

More details are included in the new version of the criteria.

While new targets from 15 July 2022 will only be accepted if they are consistent with limiting global warming to 1.5°C, existing targets in line with well-below 2°C or 2°C (which were set before the new criteria was introduced) will continue to be valid.

The SBTi has previously accepted commitments from all companies in which a sector development was underway. The O&G sector was treated similarly to other sectors. However, from the project work carried out thus far it has become apparent that science-based emissions reductions for the O&G sector and broader fossil fuels sectors are complex and the SBTi is taking a cautious and deliberate approach. As always, our aim is to develop robust methodologies that will support decarbonization at the pace and scale required by science.

Yes, the SBTi is continuing work on the O&G sector. Please visit our O&G sector webpage to review recent publication, and see our evaluation report for updates.

For other outstanding questions please contact [email protected].

This policy only affects automakers, including companies that manufacture new road vehicles, such as new light duty vehicles, new light commercial vehicles, new medium freight trucks and new heavy freight trucks. See also the table below for more details and the SBT Transport Guidance.

Yes, companies with existing commitments will be granted extensions if affected by this policy. Companies with approved targets will continue to be valid for five years from the date of approval.

The SBTi has previously validated targets from automakers in line with the Target Validation Protocol, where scope 3 targets covering ‘use of sold products’ have been required to meet the minimum level of ambition determined by the SDA Transport tool, covering well-to-wheel (WTW) emissions of sold vehicles, and aligned to the well-below 2°C pathway. As per our SBTi Criteria, companies with approved science-based targets must review, and if necessary recalculate and revalidate, their targets at a minimum every five years, following the most recent applicable criteria at the time of resubmission.