Urgent Net-Zero Steps Proposed for Agrifood Sector in SBTi Draft
Amsterdam, Tuesday, 25 March 2025.
The SBTi highlights immediate actions for agrifood companies to cut emissions, stressing the importance of verifiable audits and targeted supply chain engagement.
Enhanced Verification Requirements
The Science Based Targets initiative’s latest draft update introduces stringent verification measures for corporate emissions reporting. A key addition is the requirement for limited assurance of reported emissions, with recommendations for even more robust verification methods [1]. This enhanced accountability framework particularly impacts larger companies operating in higher-income countries, classified as Category A, who must adhere to all criteria, while smaller Category B companies are granted more flexibility in implementation [1].
Supply Chain Focus
With approximately 70% of agricultural emissions occurring at the farm level [1], the updated standard emphasizes direct mitigation within supply chains. The initiative recognizes the critical role of supplier engagement, particularly in agricultural value chains [1]. This aligns with broader industry efforts, as demonstrated by the International Platform for Insetting (IPI), which promotes nature-based solutions and sustainable practices within business value chains [5].
Beyond Value Chain Mitigation
The standard provides comprehensive guidance for Beyond Value Chain Mitigation investments, including protocols for high-integrity carbon credit purchases to address residual emissions [1]. This approach is supported by established frameworks from organizations like the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), which represents over 230 leading businesses committed to addressing the climate crisis [6].
Implementation Timeline
Companies have until June 1, 2025, to provide feedback on the draft standard [1]. This consultation period is crucial as the standard aims to support over 3,000 businesses with net-zero targets [5]. The timing is particularly significant as the Greenhouse Gas Protocol has announced its final Land Sector and Removals Guidance will be released in the fourth quarter of 2025 [4].