SBTi publishes new pathways to accelerate chemicals sector’s net-zero transition

The SBTi Chemical Sector Pathways and Implementation Criteria provides a clearer, more actionable path to net-zero, enabling companies to set science-based targets that drive innovation, strengthen stakeholder confidence and build long-term resilience in a carbon-constrained world.

The pathways include science-based decarbonization trajectories for the most emission-intensive activities in the chemicals sector, including:

• Pathways for the most emissions-intensive primary chemicals, including ammonia, methanol and high-value chemicals.
• A pathway for nitrous oxide emissions generated in the production of nitric acid.
• A pathway for non-primary chemicals production.
• A pathway for reducing use-phase nitrous oxide emissions from the application of nitrogen fertilizers.
• A pathway to increase the use of alternative feedstocks used in the production of chemicals.

The chemicals sector plays a pivotal role in the global transition to net-zero. As 95% of manufactured products rely on chemicals, the sector underpins nearly every part of the global economy. It is also the largest industrial energy consumer and the third highest industrial source of global carbon emissions—positioning chemical manufacturers to lead industrial decarbonization.

Designed for use in parallel with the Corporate Net-Zero Standard, as well as the Corporate Near-Term Criteria, these new resources enable companies in the chemicals sector to set targets to transition towards net-zero aligned business models.

The Chemical Sector Pathways and Implementation Criteria was developed through extensive research and stakeholder engagement, including two public consultations, pilot testing, and input from a dedicated Expert Advisory Group. It follows a streamlined structure to make target setting easier to understand and apply, while maintaining alignment with global climate goals.

David Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer at the Science Based Targets initiative, said:

“The chemicals sector is central in the transition to net-zero, given its fundamental role in the global economy. Our new criteria reflects common underpinnings in the diverse range of processes used in the sector, expressing these in pathways for chemical manufacturers to act decisively on net-zero—unlocking innovation, efficiency, and long-term business value."

Alberto Carrillo Pineda, Chief Technical Officer at the Science-Based Targets initiative, said:

“Developing this ambitious Criteria has involved extensive research, consultation, and expert input–all aimed at driving meaningful transformation in the chemicals sector. Grounded in the latest science, it defines specific pathways outlining how much and how quickly companies must reduce emissions to align with international climate goals. By using these pathways, companies can align their climate strategies and confidently navigate through the net-zero transformation.”