The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has launched the SBTi Academy, an educational platform designed to equip professionals with the necessary skills to set and achieve science-based climate targets. This launch coincides with the introduction of a certification process for “SBTi Certified Experts,” which aims to validate the expertise required by businesses to navigate the complexities of science-based target setting.
SBTi emphasised the urgent need for expertise in integrating climate science with business operations to meet future sustainability skill demands. Established in 2015, SBTi’s mission is to standardise science-based environmental target setting within corporate practices. Its primary functions include defining best practices for emissions reductions and net-zero targets, offering technical support to companies, and providing independent assessments of their emissions reduction goals. The organisation released its Corporate Net-Zero Standard in 2021 and is currently developing an updated version, Corporate Net-Zero Standard V2.
The launch of the SBTi Academy comes amid a global surge in demand for sustainability skills, driven by the increasing implementation of climate commitments and compliance with sustainability reporting and regulatory requirements. SBTi’s new platform aims to make science-based target setting more accessible, helping professionals develop skills, navigate the target setting process, and contribute to the global net-zero transition.
The e-learning platform consists of three hubs catering to various skill levels. The “Onboarding Hub” offers free beginner-level training, introducing science-based targets and foundational technical concepts. The “Practitioners Hub” provides advanced premium training for sustainability professionals in strategy, operations, procurement, and reporting, offering both free and paid modules on topics such as the GHG Protocol and corporate near-term and net-zero targets. The “Certification Hub” is an advanced assessment centre for specialists pursuing the “SBTi Certified Experts” certification, highlighting advanced proficiency in science-based target setting.
Tracy Wyman, Chief Impact Officer of the Science Based Targets initiative, stated, “While the appetite for science-based targets is growing, access to skills is a common barrier to target-setting. By providing foundational knowledge for those just setting out on their own sustainability journey and providing certification for sustainability experts already helping companies on their journeys to decarbonise, the SBTi Academy aims to bridge the skills gap to set companies up for success.”
