The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has launched the next phase of its Corporate Net-Zero Standard revision process, inviting businesses globally to participate in a pilot test of the draft Corporate Net-Zero Standard Version 2 (V2).
The pilot, open to companies of all sizes and from all sectors and regions, is a critical part of the SBTi’s efforts to ensure the revised Standard remains scientifically rigorous while also being practical and implementable for the corporate sector.
Since its launch in 2021, the Corporate Net-Zero Standard has become the global benchmark for credible, science-based net-zero target-setting. Over 1,850 companies have aligned their climate goals with the Standard, reinforcing its central role in the global decarbonisation agenda. The updated draft framework aims to build on this foundation, enabling deeper and wider corporate climate action from 2026 onwards through a more pragmatic and innovative approach.
In line with the organisation’s Standard Operating Procedure for developing standards, the pilot will be conducted in two phases:
- Phase one involves a broad survey open to businesses across sectors and geographies, designed to collect feedback on the draft Standard and assess interest in Phase Two.
- Phase two will engage a selected group of companies to test near-final elements of the draft using real-world data. This phase aims to uncover practical challenges, validate methodological assumptions, and refine the framework based on operational insights.
The survey for Phase One is open from Monday, 16 June to Friday, 15 August 2025. Companies can participate in Phase One alone or indicate their interest in taking part in both phases by completing the Corporate Net-Zero Standard V2 Pilot Test Phase 1: Company Survey.
Further information about the pilot’s objectives, structure, timeline, and selection criteria is available in the published Terms of Reference.
Alberto Carrillo Pineda, Chief Technical Officer at the SBTi, said: “After seeing an impressive level of engagement across the ecosystem in the public consultation on the first draft Corporate Net-Zero Standard V2, pilot testing is the next stage where we will gather more practical, first-hand insights. Companies of all sizes, sectors, and regions participating will be an invaluable resource, providing us with a diverse evidence base that will mean that the final draft Standard is practical for businesses and ignites even more impactful corporate climate action.”
