Emissions Reduction Target Setting
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Setting Credible Climate Targets
Setting emissions reduction targets has become a critical step for organizations seeking to manage climate risk, meet investor and customer expectations, and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market. Companies are increasingly establishing science-based targets (SBTs), climate targets, and net-zero commitments to align with global climate goals and demonstrate leadership.
Organizations are facing growing pressure from a range of stakeholders, including customers, investors, and value chain partners. Many large companies, including Microsoft, Amazon, and Walmart, now expect or require suppliers to disclose Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 emissions and set reduction targets—making this essential to staying in the supply chain.
For companies that have completed a GHG emissions inventory, target setting is the next critical step, translating emissions data into a clear, forward-looking commitment. From there, organizations must define how those targets will be achieved through decarbonization planning and operational improvements.
A well-defined target-setting process ensures that emissions reduction targets are credible, defensible, and aligned with business strategy, grounded in a clear understanding of feasibility, cost, and implementation pathways.
Emissions Reduction Target Setting Services
Our services support science-based target setting, net-zero strategy development, and corporate climate target planning, covering everything from initial evaluation through validation and implementation alignment.
Our process can include some or all of the following elements:
Business Case Development and Benchmarking
- Peer, customer, and industry benchmarking of climate targets
- Evaluation of investor, customer, and regulatory expectations, including supplier requirements
- Identification of business risks and opportunities, including potential revenue impacts
- Executive education and internal alignment
Target Evaluation and Scenario Analysis
- Target-setting readiness assessment
- Scenario modeling across different ambition levels
- Evaluation of Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 targets
- Consideration of business growth, operational changes, and emissions drivers
- Evaluation of decarbonization levers
Target Selection and Framework Alignment
- Identification of appropriate target types (e.g., SBTs, net-zero targets, and RE100)
- Alignment with SBTi guidance and other recognized frameworks
- Evaluation of alternative approaches where SBTi may not be the best fit
Validation Support (e.g., SBTi)
- Preparation and compilation of required documentation
- Submission support through validation platforms
- Ongoing support during technical review and validation process
Decarbonization Alignment (Optional, Recommended)
- Identification of emissions reduction opportunities across operations
- Integration with decarbonization planning and emissions reduction roadmaps
- Alignment of targets with capital planning and operational strategy
For many organizations, combining target setting with decarbonization planning provides the greatest value. This ensures that targets are credible and supported by a clear and actionable implementation pathway. In some cases, this includes facility optimization and energy management initiatives as key drivers of Scope 1 and Scope 2 reductions.
Frequently Asked Questions: Emissions Reduction Target Setting
What are science-based targets (SBTs)?
SBTs are emissions reduction targets aligned with climate science and the goals of the Paris Agreement. These targets follow methodologies developed by the SBTi and provide a credible pathway for reducing emissions in line with limiting global warming.
Do companies need SBTi validation?
It is not legally required but many organizations pursue SBTi validation to enhance credibility. It’s also important to keep in mind that some companies require validation from their suppliers.
What is the difference between net-zero and emissions reduction targets?
Emissions reduction targets focus on reducing emissions over a defined timeframe. Net-zero targets represent a longer-term commitment to both reducing emissions as much as possible and neutralizing any remaining emissions.
Do we need to include Scope 3 emissions?
In many cases, yes. Scope 3 emissions are often the majority portion of a company’s footprint and are increasingly expected in frameworks such as SBTi and by customers within the value chain.
How does target setting connect to decarbonization planning?
Target setting defines what an organization aims to achieve, while decarbonization planning defines how those reductions will be delivered. Many organizations choose to combine these efforts to ensure targets are supported by a clear, actionable roadmap.
What happens after a target is set?
Organizations typically move into decarbonization planning, emissions tracking, and reporting to ensure they are making progress toward their targets. This may also include facility optimization initiatives to reduce energy use and operational emissions.
Can you help us purchase Renewable Energy Credits (RECs)?
Yes. Please contact Dr. Susan Lewis for more information.
Completing Scope 1 and 2 GHG Inventories and Audits Across 92 Facilities for Insurance Provider
Supporting a Large Energy Provider in Achieving Carbon Neutrality by 2030
Building a Strategy and Roadmap to Support Carbon Neutral Goal at a Technology Company
Setting Science-Based Targets that Align with Corporate Social Responsibility
Building a GHG Emissions Calculation Tool
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