Set target

Third-party validation of your target can support the credibility of your ambition. Targets should be developed towards a particular standard, as requirements vary between groups. It is also important to select a third-party group that has rigorous criteria, so the validation enables you to differentiate your company from other companies.

SBTi net zero is best in class

SBTi validation is best-in-class. If you have set your ambition and targets aligned with SBTi guidance, you should follow the steps below to fully benefit from net zero rigor:

1. Commit

Prepare a commitment letter confirming the interest to have a target independently verified against SBTi criteria.

2. Develop

Create a target in line with the SBTi criteria and guidance. Companies have up to 24 months to set a target after submitting the commitment letter.

3. Submit

Provide the target for external validation by the SBTi’s Target Validation Team (TVT), whose validation protocol should be reviewed before submitting. Validation can take up to 30 business days after submission.

4. Communicate

Upon validation, publicly disclose the approved ambition. Companies have up to six months to announce validated targets publicly.

5. Disclose

Following approval, report emissions and monitor progress against targets annually. Best practice is to disclose via CDP, annual and sustainability reports.

Further validation pledges or industry specific groups

There are several other voluntary initiatives and collective pledges emerging to gather organizations committing to align to global net zero efforts. Step 3 summarizes the most prominent global groups.