3: The Science Based Targets Network, SBTN

The Science Based Targets Network is a collaboration that helps companies and cities set science-based climate and environmental targets.

The SBTN published its first SBTs for Nature guidance for businesses in 2020 which includes biodiversity along with freshwater, oceans and soil. The initiative is a collaboration between global organizations and academic institutions that together help companies develop methodologies and guidelines for setting biodiversity targets.

While climate change has become a key focus of many companies’ sustainability strategies, there is now clear scientific evidence that net zero is not possible without nature. This understanding comes amidst an unprecedented nature crisis, driven by unsustainable exploitation of Earth’s natural resources and systems. The interplay between nature and climate requires collective, joined-up action to stabilize the climate, preserve freshwater resources, regenerate land, secure a healthy ocean and protect biodiversity. This must be done in line with scientifically defined limits and on a socially equitable basis.

Article from Climate Week NYC, September 2023