SBTN Announces First Cohort of Companies Stepping Up for Nature
The Science Based Targets Network (SBTN) today unveiled the first cohort of companies joining its Step Up for Nature initiative, signaling their commitment to taking science-based action to protect nature in alignment with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
Through the initiative, companies publicly share the next steps they plan to take toward setting science-based targets for nature, along with timelines for submitting their work for independent validation by the Accountability Accelerator. These intended milestones are showcased on SBTN’s new Ambition Board, offering transparency on corporate progress and direction.
“By stepping up together, these companies send a clear signal that, even in uncertain times, business is moving to operationalize global goals for nature,” said Erin Billman, CEO of SBTN. “Companies are seeking clarity – and acting on it.”
Growing Corporate Momentum
The first 24 participating companies span multiple regions and industries, demonstrating growing market demand for clear, science-based guidance on nature. Their ambitions range from completing materiality screenings and value chain assessments to setting land, freshwater, and ocean targets. These early movers are part of a broader pipeline of more than 150 companies preparing to set targets through SBTN, building on the initial companies that have already validated freshwater and land targets.
While Step Up for Nature highlights companies’ next steps, SBTN’s accelerated pathways provide flexibility to move more quickly through the target-setting process, allowing the scope of action to expand as readiness increases.
Joining Future Cohorts
Companies interested in joining upcoming cohorts can sign up on a rolling basis. The next cohort is expected in early 2026. To encourage early participation, the first 25 companies to submit milestones for validation through the initiative will receive a 50% reduction in validation service fees (terms and conditions apply).
Pilot Programs Driving Readiness
Several cohort participants are also part of SBTN’s pilot programs, which help refine and operationalize additional guidance.
Waitrose (John Lewis Partnership), Orkla Foods Sweden, and Seatopia are piloting ocean science-based targets for the seafood sector using SBTN’s guidance. “We aim to strengthen our risk and opportunity assessment to support science-based action across our seafood value chains,” said Lars Lundahl, Environment & Sustainable Sourcing Manager, Orkla Foods Sweden.
Novo Nordisk and UPM-Kymmene, among others, are piloting Version 2 of SBTN’s land guidance. “Healthy ecosystems benefit not only us, but our customers and society,” said Sakari Suuriniemi, Senior Manager for Global Forest Affairs, UPM.
Expanding Resources for 2026
SBTN plans a second major release mid-2026, adding new resources to support companies in setting and implementing targets. Updates will include expanded guidance for land and freshwater, revised ocean guidance, and additional materials for target implementation and measurement, rounding out the core resources available to companies.
For more information on the Step Up for Nature initiative, visit SBTN website or contact communications@sbtnetwork.org.
