Joint Response: WBA and ADEME on SBTi Corporate Net-Zero Standard v2.0

Representing the ACT – Accelerate Climate Transition initiative, the World Benchmarking Alliance and ADEME have submitted a joint response to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) consultation on its revised Corporate Net-Zero Standard (CNZS).

This updated standard, originally published in 2021, proposes more ambitious and detailed requirements for corporate target-setting. If adopted, CNZS v2.0 could greatly improve the credibility of companies’ climate transition plans by ensuring targets are science-based, measurable, and aligned with 1.5°C pathways.

In our submission, we express support for improvements including greater granularity in target-setting, mandatory transition planning, and stronger transparency through third-party assurance. We also call for clearer definitions of “net zero” and “conformance,” and urge SBTi to address critical gaps in Scope 3 emissions tracking, governance, and accountability to reduce the risk of greenwashing.

This submission draws on the shared expertise of the World Benchmarking Alliance and ADEME, co-leaders of the ACT Initiative — a pioneering framework that helps consultancies, companies, and sustainability organisations evaluate the credibility of corporate climate transition plans.