TRANSPORT
The transport sector is responsible for over a quarter of global CO2 emissions, being key in the transformation to a net-zero economy. We're developing guidance for companies in this sector to set science-based targets. See our current policy regarding Automakers OEMs.
Guidance for the transport sector
Why take action?
As the fastest-growing source of emissions worldwide, it is critical for the transport sector to become more sustainable and help keep global temperature rise to 1.5ºC.
Land Transport - Road, Rail, OEMs, Passenger and Freight
Land transport companies can set targets for their scope 3 emissions using the SBTi’s Sectoral Decarbonization Approach (SDA) Transport tool: a technical resource to model science-based targets for direct and indirect transport emissions. The tool is focused on land transportation for passenger and freight, and OEM) sectors and provides greenhouse gas emissions accounting guidance and best practices for science-based target setting.
- Download the SBTi target-setting tool to model scope 1 and 2 targets
- Download the SDA transport target-setting tool to model scope 3 targets
In 2023, the SBTi undertook a transparent, multi-stakeholder process to inform the development of a clear, robust and practical Interim Sector Pathway for automakers to set science-based targets in line with 1.5°C. Further updates will be shared in due course.
Sea Transport - Shipping, Passengers and Freight
The SBTi developed the Science-Based Target-Setting Guidance and Tool for the Maritime Transport Sector, to enable companies within this sector to set emission reduction targets in line with 1.5°C. This was developed with the support of WWF, UMAS and Smart Freight Centre (SFC).A month-long public consultation was held in 2021. Experts in the maritime sector provided feedback on the draft guidance and target-setting tool to inform the development of robust, clear and practical criteria and guidance.
The SBTi Maritime Guidance is now available. Download the Maritime Transport Target- Setting Tool.
To learn more, visit the maritime project page, watch the training webinars (session 1 and session 2) and download the slides (session 1 and session 2).
Air Transport - Aviation
The SBTi has released a technical report detailing an interim pathway for aviation companies to set 1.5°C-aligned science-based targets.
This pathway is designed to harmonize existing sector guidance with the SBTi’s current criteria. It allows aviation companies to meet the minimum ambition levels required by the criteria, and provides a short-term, accessible option for them to set science-based net-zero targets.
Learn more about the interim pathway.
Contact the project leads for more information.
Sectoral Decarbonization Approach (SDA) Transport tool
Companies in the transport sector should use SBTi’s cross-sector pathway to develop and set science-based targets that are aligned with the initiative’s current criteria.
The SBTi will review and update the passenger, freight and OEM sector target-setting guidance through a formal sector development process, which will involve advice of an Expert Advisory Group (EAG) and public stakeholder consultation. The SBTi Interim 1.5°C Sector Pathway for Automakers will be reviewed and superseded upon the completion of this sector guidance update process.
To stay informed, join our mailing list.
Background Resources
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.