On 11 June 2026, the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) published the new Corporate Net-Zero Standard Version 2.0. This represents a comprehensive update to the previous net-zero framework for companies.
Drawing on over ten years’ experience and with more than 11,000 companies having validated climate targets, the focus is shifting more strongly from simply setting targets towards implementation and demonstrating concrete progress.
For the first time, the SBT is introducing a framework that enables companies to communicate their commitment to addressing current emissions through supplementary climate finance outside their own value chain in a legally compliant manner.
This further development is based on feedback from business practice. Many organisations have set climate targets but face structural challenges in implementing them – particularly with regard to data availability, complex Scope 3 emissions, investment cycles and technological limitations. The new standard is therefore intended more as a framework for action, designed to help companies link climate targets to strategic decisions and concrete implementation measures.
The core of the SBTi remains the same. Companies are expected to pursue science-based net-zero pathways. The hierarchy, with a focus on measures for reduction, remains in place. The key changes are:
The new standard distinguishes more clearly between different categories of companies and performs an adaptation of the requirements accordingly
Stricter requirements regarding governance, implementation and transition plans
A refined target structure for Scope 1, Scope 2 and Scope 3
Continuous progress assessment and adaptation rather than one-off validation
Introduction of Ongoing Emissions Responsibility (OER), i.e. recognition of climate finance as a complementary approach to taking responsibility for ongoing emissions
OER introduces a framework that enables companies to tackle current or remaining emissions – for example, by funding climate protection projects.
It is important to note that OER still does not replace emissions reductions within a company’s own value chain. Supported projects cannot be counted towards a company’s own targets. However, according to the SBTi, OER explicitly complements a credible net-zero strategy.
For companies with SBTi targets that have already been validated, there is currently no immediate need for action. Existing targets remain valid, and the transition to the Corporate Net-Zero Standard Version 2.0 will generally take place upon reaching the target year or as part of the mandatory five-year review – whichever comes first. However, companies can already benefit from the new resources and concepts to further develop their climate strategy.
Companies wishing to submit new targets to the SBTi or have their existing targets revalidated from 2027 onwards should assess at an early stage which requirements of the new standard will be relevant to them. These include, in particular, new requirements in the areas of governance, transition planning and progress reporting.
myclimate helps your company assess the implications of the new standard and define specific next steps – from developing science-based targets through to implementation and supplementary financing for climate protection.
Now, more than ever, it is worth assessing the implications of the new standard at an early stage. The SBTi strongly recommends that companies do not wait for the full roll-out of the new standard, but instead set science-based climate targets today and use the resources available under the Corporate Net-Zero Standard 2.0 to build a robust climate strategy.
We’d be happy to help you assess the situation and take the next steps
