FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS
The finance sector is key to unlocking the system-wide change needed to reach net-zero.
With our new framework, financial institutions can set science-based targets and align their lending and investment activities with the Paris Agreement.
Guidance for the finance sector
Why take action?
Financial institutions are increasingly recognizing the extent of climate risks and their impact on every market sector. Investment and lending activities must be urgently reviewed to avoid the worst effects of catastrophic climate change and fund a climate-secure, zero-carbon future.
How to set a target
The Science Based Targets initiative’s new framework allows financial institutions – including banks, investors, insurance companies, pension funds and others – to set science-based targets to align their lending and investment activities with the Paris Agreement.
Get started today. Commit to set a target and download our new resources to develop your target.
View the new April 2021 guidance for financial institutions here.
Net-Zero Foundations for Financial Institutions
Financial institutions with US$80 trillion in assets under management are now committed to reaching a state of net-zero before 2050. A science-based approach is therefore needed to financial institutions' net-zero target setting.
To support this, the SBTi has developed a draft foundational framework representing the first step in defining net-zero for financial institutions. A five-week consultation on the draft began on 10 November 2021. Stakeholder feedback will inform the revision and final publication of the net-zero for financial institutions foundations paper in early 2022.
The foundations paper will be followed by an open stakeholder process to develop actionable criteria, detailed guidance, and technical resources to support financial institutions in the formulation and implementation of their science-based net-zero targets.
New tool for temperature scoring and portfolio coverage
We have developed a data-agnostic Python library that is primarily for integration into commercial and homegrown decision support and portfolio management systems, but can also be run as a standalone solution. It is based on the temperature scoring method developed by CDP and WWF.
This tool helps financial institutions to assess the temperature alignment of current emission reduction targets, commitments, and investment and lending portfolios. This information can be used by financial institutions to develop GHG emission reduction targets for official validation by the SBTi, develop engagement strategies and help with strategic security selection and allocation decisions.
Browse more sectors
If your sector is not listed here, you can still set a science-based target using our methods and resources. Consult the step-by-step guide to get started.
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