SBTi Unveils New Pathways to Propel Chemicals Sector Toward Net-Zero
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has today launched new sector-specific pathways and supporting criteria designed to accelerate the chemicals industry’s transition to net-zero emissions. With these guidelines, chemical manufacturers now have the tools to set clear, science-based targets that foster innovation, strengthen stakeholder confidence, and build resilience in an increasingly carbon-constrained world.
The newly released SBTi Chemical Sector Pathways and Implementation Criteria provide actionable decarbonization strategies for the chemicals industry, which is one of the largest industrial energy consumers and a major contributor to global carbon emissions. These pathways focus on the most emissions-intensive aspects of the sector, including:
Decarbonization strategies for primary chemicals, such as ammonia, methanol, and high-value chemicals.
A pathway for reducing nitrous oxide emissions from nitric acid production.
A pathway targeting non-primary chemical production.
Reducing nitrous oxide emissions during the use-phase of nitrogen fertilizers.
Increasing the adoption of alternative feedstocks in chemical production.
As the global economy is deeply reliant on chemicals—95% of manufactured products contain chemicals—this sector plays a pivotal role in the world’s net-zero journey. It is also the third-largest industrial emitter of carbon dioxide, positioning chemical manufacturers as key leaders in the decarbonization of industry.
The pathways are designed to complement the Corporate Net-Zero Standard and the Corporate Near-Term Criteria, allowing companies to align their operations with global climate goals and effectively transition towards net-zero business models. Developed through extensive research, stakeholder engagement, and two public consultations, the new criteria provide a clear, streamlined framework for target setting in the chemicals sector.
The publication of these new pathways marks a significant step forward in decarbonizing the chemicals sector, providing manufacturers with the guidance needed to reduce emissions while maintaining competitiveness and ensuring long-term sustainability.
