Science-Based Targets

Together against Climate Change

Science-Based Targets (SBTs) are climate-effective reduction targets for greenhouse gas emissions. They are based on current climate research and ensure that your company makes a measurable contribution to limiting global warming to 1.5°C. With SBTs, you align your climate strategy with concrete, scientifically based targets, setting clear priorities for your decarbonization. SBTs are calculated using different methods, each of which takes into account industry developments and company-specific factors.

This is where DFGE can help: We work with you to find the right method for your company and jointly determine which data and emission sources to include in your calculations. From the initial analysis to implementation, we accompany you through the entire process – as the first official SBT partner of the CDP in the DACH region. Companies from the DAX, MDAX, and SME sectors already trust us to calculate, analyze, and introduce their Science-Based Climate Targets.

Why setting Science-Based Targets?

6 Distinct Advantages

Reputation and brand image

95% confirm: SBTs improve corporate reputation through scientifically validated climate targets.

Ensure financial performance

92% report neutral or positive effects on profitability (cost savings, new markets).

Convincing investors

80% see improved investor relations – SBTs meet ESG criteria and reduce capital costs.

Raise climate protection ambitions

90% achieve higher climate targets – SBTs make decarbonization measurable.

Increase industry credibility

75% report a higher reputation in the industry – you set standards.

Accelerate decarbonization

Reduce emissions faster by 86% through clear prioritization (Scope 1–3).

Overall, 91% of companies with SBTs report positive effects. Source: The-Impact-of-Setting-SBTs.pdf // November 2025

Science-Based Targets Near-Term Services

Set appropriate 5-10 year targets in line with the 1.5°C target.

Professional

  • Turnkey solution to define a first, company-wide Science-Based Target based on your needs
  • Intensity and absolute target corridor for Scope 1, 2 and optionally Scope 3
  • Based on the SBT approach best suited to your sector and company
  • Full documentation of methodology and results
  • On-site kickoff workshop included

Enterprise

  • 360° project to investigate and implement the optimum SBT solution for your company
  • Application/customization of several SBT approaches & interpretation of results
  • Intensity and absolute target corridors for Scope 1, 2 and optionally Scope 3
  • Sub-target breakdown for locations/countries/regions or business units
  • Integration of existing custom KPIs, targets and scenarios
  • Assistance in the target validation procedure via the Science-Based Targets Initiative
  • Recommendations & action items for implementation
  • Full documentation of methodology, results and recommendations
  • On-site kickoff workshop & final presentation meeting
  • Optional: Fully customized tool to let you track & update your targets

Services

  • Our one day SBT Workshop enables you to calculate Science-Based Targets on your own:
    It covers SBT methodologies & process, company & sector status, data sources & calculation examples.
  • In addition to the „Complete“ package, we can provide you with a fully customized and documented SBT tool specific to your company, to let you monitor & update all targets, sub-targets & scenarios on your own

NEW: Rent an Expert

DFGE as your sparring partner: Would you like to ask questions, request elaborations & workshops or simply obtain feedback? Then book our experts on an hourly basis.
Request now!

SBTi SME Path - Support for SMEs

Setting Science-Based Climate Targets

The Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has developed a simplified submission process specifically tailored to small and medium-sized enterprises. At DFGE, we support you every step of the way—from planning to achieving your goals.

  1. Target definition: Development of customized climate targets (short-term until 2030/2035 or long-term net zero until 2050) and selection of the appropriate target type (reduction, maintenance, or net zero).
  2. Implementation planning: Creation of detailed plans for the implementation of climate targets, including the development of concrete measures and tools for monitoring progress.
  3. Monitoring and reporting: Establishment of systems for continuous monitoring and reporting of progress, including regular assessment of emissions.

By working with DFGE, SMEs can ensure that their climate targets are realistic and achievable. This enables companies to improve their environmental performance while meeting the requirements of large customers and regulatory standards.

Your Advantages

Why you should consider DFGE to help you choose the right Science-Based Targets

Flexibility

 

  • You decide how much support you need—from independent calculation to a complete solution (we take care of everything—from data collection to SBTi validation).
  • You determine which approaches are most appropriate for you and what level of detail suits you best.
  • You decide which steps we accompany you in—from strategy to implementation.

Expertise in emissions

 

  • We have been calculating greenhouse gas emissions for over 25 years.
  • As a spin-off of the Technical University of Munich, we have developed our own methods and programs over many years to calculate your carbon footprint quickly and efficiently and reduce the margin of error.
  • We have helped numerous companies set ambitious but realistic emission targets – and successfully implement them.
  • We offer support and complete solutions for numerous CSR reports such as CDP, GRI, and EcoVadis, and advise you on the strategic integration of SBTs in this context.

The DFGE Network

 

  • As the first CDP Science-Based Targets Partner in the DACH region and an accredited CDP Silver Climate Change Consultancy Partner, we have direct access to the most important climate initiatives.
  • We are in regular contact with SBTi, UNGC, WRI, and WWF—and are familiar with the latest requirements and trends.
  • From SMEs to DAX and Global 500 companies, we have successfully supported companies in the automotive, energy, chemical, logistics, packaging, ICT, and other industries.

References

Successful SBT Customer Projects

FAQ | SBTs in a Nutshell

1. What are SBTs?

Science-based targets (SBTs) are scientifically based climate targets that help companies make a measurable contribution to the 1.5-degree target of the Paris Climate Agreement. Unlike self-imposed targets, SBTs are based on strict standards set by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and are validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

2. What is the SBTi?

The Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is a leading global organization that supports companies in setting science-based climate targets. Founded by CDP, UN Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI), and WWF, it provides a clear framework for defining emissions reductions in line with the 1.5°C target of the Paris Agreement.

3. What is the difference between near-term and long-term targets?

Near-term targets define how much a company must reduce its emissions over the next 5–10 years – in line with the 1.5°C target for Scope 1 & 2 and the “well below 2°C” target for Scope 3. These targets are important milestones on the path to net zero and are scientifically reviewed every 5 years.

Long-term targets aim for net-zero emissions by 2050 at the latest. Here, all emissions (Scope 1–3) must comply with the 1.5°C target. Unavoidable residual emissions will be offset by compensation measures (e.g., CO₂ storage). While near-term targets require immediate action, long-term targets secure the long-term strategy.

4. How does SBTi validation work?

Validation by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) gives your climate targets scientific credibility. The process is clearly structured and runs entirely via the SBTi platform:

  1. Registration & Commitment
    You register on the SBTi platform and submit a commitment letter declaring your intention to set targets. This gives you access to all SBTi resources (tools, guidelines, support) and starts the 24-month target development period. Submission and validation are also carried out via the platform.
  2. Target development
    The SBTi Target Setting Tool is used to develop the reduction targets. Your emissions data is analyzed and industry-specific requirements (Scope 1–3) are taken into account.
  3. Submission & validation
    Your targets are submitted for review. The SBTi reviews them against strict 1.5°C criteria and validates them if successful.
  4. Implementation & monitoring
    After validation, your targets are publicly listed on the SBTi dashboard. Once a year, you report on your progress – for transparency and continuous optimization.

Duration & costs: The process takes 6–12 months, and the costs depend on the size of your company.

Questions regarding Science-Based Targets?

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