SBTN announces first companies publicly adopting science-based targets for nature
The Science Based Targets Network (SBTN) has announced a groundbreaking step as companies begin adopting science-based targets for nature, focusing initially on freshwater and land. This milestone represents a significant push toward a nature-positive future, with corporate leaders like Kering, GSK and Holcim pioneering this approach.
These targets align with the Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030. By committing to structured, credible action, these companies are setting a powerful example for others to follow, marking a new era in corporate responsibility for environmental sustainability.
Key points
- Global luxury group Kering adopts the first-ever science-based targets for both freshwater and land, while global biopharma company GSK and building materials and solutions company Holcim have adopted the first science-based targets for freshwater
- These disclosures come following the conclusion of the Science Based Targets Network’s (SBTN) year-long corporate pilot program, with majority of participating companies receiving validation for some or all targets
- Trail-blazing companies will move ahead with adopting and publicly disclosing targets – focused on freshwater and land – addressing key drivers of nature loss within the ecosystems they and their suppliers operate
- Announcement comes as business and world leaders gather at COP16, with SBTN’s Executive Director Erin Billman calling for urgent corporate action to tackle nature loss
Erin Billman, Executive Director of Science Based Targets Network, said: “With global nature loss accelerating at an unprecedented rate, it’s clear that urgent, decisive action is required from governments and business alike to reverse and halt this trend. For companies, this means understanding their material impacts and dependencies on nature, and taking ambitious science-based action to address and mitigate those impacts.
“Our corporate pilot has shown that science-based targets for nature are both feasible and valuable, closing a critical gap in corporate sustainability. We’re pleased to see GSK, Kering and Holcim lead the way by publicly adopting the world’s first science-based targets beyond climate; demonstrating that a clear and credible pathway for ambitious action for nature is possible. The time for companies to act is now — responsibly, urgently, and with the ambition that matches the scale of the challenge.”
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Date: October 30, 2024
