What is the SBTi and how does Trace support SBTi-aligned targets?
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is an external framework that validates whether a company's emissions reduction targets are aligned with climate science. Trace helps you measure the emissions data and track progress your targets are built on.
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is the global "gold standard" framework for companies setting greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets aligned with climate science and the Paris Agreement goals (limiting warming to well below 2°C, and ideally 1.5°C).
What makes a target “SBTi-aligned”?
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Science-aligned: Targets follow methods based on what climate science says is needed to reduce emissions at the pace required.
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Validated: Companies can submit targets to SBTi for independent review and validation.
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Comprehensive: Targets typically cover Scope 1 and Scope 2, plus relevant Scope 3 categories where Scope 3 makes up a significant share of total emissions.
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Time-bound: Targets are set for clear timelines, most commonly near-term targets covering 5–10 years.
SBTi is an external standard that companies choose to commit to. Trace helps you measure, manage, and reduce emissions in a way that supports an SBTi-aligned pathway - it doesn't validate or submit targets on your behalf.
For more information on how to set formal SBTi targets, visit the official SBTi website: How to set science-based targets
How Trace supports your SBTi journey
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Measure emissions (foundation for targets): Trace calculates your footprint and breaks it down by Scope 1, 2, and 3, so you have the baseline data needed to know what to target and by how much.
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Set and track reduction goals: In the Reduce section of Trace, you can define reduction targets, including targets structured to align with SBTi requirements, and track progress against them over time. See: How do I set an emissions target in Trace?
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Keep offsets and removals separate from target progress: Carbon offset and removal projects cannot be be used as reduction levers for SBTi target progress. SBTi's target-setting criteria focus on real ("absolute") reductions in your own emissions. Trace allows you to view your Gross emissions separately from your Net emissions for the purposes of reporting. Offset credits are typically treated as a separate lever, and how (or whether) they count toward a claim depends on the specific standard and claim you're making.
Trace Net Zero Certifications
Not every reduction target needs to go through SBTi validation. Plenty of companies set internal reduction goals in Trace without seeking formal verification. You can still obtain our Trace certification and badges for setting science aligned targets.
Net Zero Committed:- Set a Net Zero target in the platform to reduce emissions by 90% by 2040 or 2050
- Add 5 initiatives to your decarbonisation plan
Net Zero Aligned:
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This certification recognises companies that have achieved year-on-year reductions in their carbon footprint.
Once you've reached these goals, you will receive a badge, ready for you to share in your reporting or on your website!
AASB S2 Considerations
AASB S2 doesn't require SBTi validation, but disclosing a credible transition plan is part of AASB S2 reporting, and many companies point to an SBTi-validated target as evidence of that credibility. If you're building toward an AASB S2 disclosure, the emissions data you calculate in Trace is the same data you'd use to support an SBTi submission.
SBTi Corporate Net Zero Standard Version 2.0
SBTi is currently transitioning to a new version of its Corporate Net-Zero Standard (Version 2.0), which changes some target-setting requirements, including how Scope 1, 2 and 3 targets are structured.
What is the SBTi Corporate Net-Zero Standard V2.0 and what does it mean for target setting?