SBTi
What is SBTi
The SBTi protocol refers to the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi), which is not precisely a protocol but a collaborative effort to encourage businesses to set science-based targets for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The initiative provides a framework and methodology for companies to set emission reduction targets aligned with the latest climate science to limit global warming.
Sector Guidance
Almost every company can set a science-based target using our cross-sector guidance. For companies in some heavy emitting industries, the SBTi develops sector-specific guidance, tailored to the unique nature of the industry to enable them to develop ambitious and achievable science-based targets.
Sector-Specific Projects
Select your sector to view specific requirements and/or guidance.
For companies in some sectors, the SBTi has developed specific methodologies, guidance, and to help you through the target-setting process.
if your sector is not listed or is not finalized, you should use our core methodologies and resources to set your targets. See our Getting Started Guide to learn which methodology your company should use, according to your sector and other criteria.
Guidance for the apparel and footwear sector
Why take action?
Fast fashion trends are driving unsustainable levels of consumption and emissions are set to increase. With the worldwide apparel and footwear market expected to grow around 5% a year through 2030, it is clear the fashion industry needs to transform rapidly.
How to set a target
Our guidance supports companies in the apparel and footwear value chain with case studies on best practice, as well as strategies to reduce emissions. The guidance is aimed at retailers, brands, finished goods manufacturers, mills and other companies primarily engaged in the production and sale of apparel and footwear production.
Join fashion leaders such as Burberry, Puma and Ralph Lauren by setting a science-based target.
About the project
Led by World Resources Institute (WRI), the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) released guidance which applies to retailers, brands, finished goods manufacturers, mills, etc. that are primarily engaged in activities that contribute to the production and sale of apparel and footwear products.
Project participants
The guidance was informed by an Expert Advisory Group with representation from companies, consultants, NGOs, academic institutions and other individuals with sectoral and/or GHG accounting expertise. We also convened a broader group of stakeholders to provide input at key milestones.
Financial support
Financial support for the guidance was provided by Nike, Inc., Target Corporation, ClimateWorks Foundation, C&A Corporation, and Lenzing.
Development process
Highlights from the guidance development process:
- June 2017: Project commenced with a scoping phase. View slides from the launch webinar.
- May 2018: WRI held an open stakeholder feedback session at the Sustainable Apparel Coalition conference in Vancouver and commissioned a public, online survey on the first version of the guidance. View slides from the webinar and see a summary of public comments.
- September 2018: WRI shared the guidance with stakeholders including apparel and footwear suppliers, local brand representatives, and individuals from industry associations in Ho Chi Minh City.
- November 2018: After incorporating feedback from stakeholders, WRI released a second version of the guidance for public comment. WRI presented an overview of key insights and recommendations from the guidance at the American Apparel and Footwear Association Environmental Committee Fall 2018 Meeting in New York City.
- February 2019: WRI presented an update on the sector guidance at the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong. A summary of key points of feedback was publicly shared.
- February–June 2019: WRI incorporated feedback from the External Stakeholder Group and broader stakeholder group, as well as feedback from WRI’s internal review process, into the current draft of the guidance. We also updated the guidance to be in conformance with the latest version of the SBTi criteria, released in April 2019.
- On June 25, WRI and the Apparel Impact Institute launched the final guidance at a workshop in Barcelona