SBTi opens pilot testing applications for updated timber and wood fiber pathway

The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is inviting companies to pilot test its draft timber and wood fiber pathway—included in the Forest, Land and Agriculture (FLAG) Target-Setting Tool—providing a unique opportunity to demonstrate credible climate leadership and help shape a pathway that supports the forest, land and agriculture sector’s path to net-zero emissions.

The updates being made to the pathway aim to refine near-term target setting, and introduce a new long-term target-setting method that will help companies across the forest and paper products sector, and those reliant on wood-derived products, to set ambitious, science-based targets to reduce land-based emissions associated with forestry production.

The revisions build on stakeholder feedback and learnings from the pathway’s implementation in practice to enhance its usability, while ensuring alignment with evolving science and long-term climate goals.

Forestry has a key role in addressing the climate crisis. More than half of the world’s total GDP, around $44 trillion of economic value generation, depends moderately or highly on nature and its services. This means a majority of the global economy is directly exposed to risks from nature loss. Without decisive action, the continued loss of natural ecosystems could cost the global economy $2.7 USD trillion a year by 2030.

The SBTi is calling on companies in the forest and paper products sector, and those with emissions related to timber and wood fiber accounting for 10% or more of their FLAG emissions, to apply to join the pilot of the draft revised pathway.

Through pilot testing, companies will have early access to the latest relevant SBTi methodologies and tools as well as enhanced visibility as climate leaders, demonstrating proactive action to customers, regulators, and investors.

The pilot test for the revised timber and wood fiber pathway draft is expected to begin no earlier than Q1 2026, and will run for approximately six weeks.

The pilot testing application is open until January 5, 2026 (11:59 PM PT). Companies interested in taking part should complete the application form by the deadline. Further details regarding the pilot’s objectives, structure, timeline, and selection criteria are outlined in the Terms of Reference.