The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has emerged as a leading framework for helping companies align their emissions reduction targets with what climate science says is necessary to limit global warming to 1.5°C. While committing to climate action is relatively straightforward, translating that commitment into a credible, validated science-based target is far more complex. This is where the right support can make all the difference.
Blue North supports organisations through every stage of the SBTi journey, turning a technically demanding process into a clear and structured one.
Why SBTi Matters
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) gives organisations a credible, structured path to decarbonisation. Companies set emissions reduction targets based on scientific methods and submit them for independent validation, ensuring alignment with global climate goals.
The process is not simple. It requires detailed data, clear methodological choices, internal alignment, and thorough documentation. Data collection is often the biggest challenge, especially for Scope 3 emissions, which involve complex value chains and limited data. Many organisations also struggle with classification and data accuracy, which can slow progress.
Making the Process Clear and Manageable
Blue North starts with an introduction and boundary-setting workshop to build a strong foundation. We then support data collection through training, guidance, and practical tools.
Once data is gathered, it is reviewed for accuracy and used to develop appropriate near- and long-term targets, including Scope 3 targets. Blue North also supports submission and validation by preparing documentation and responding to SBTi feedback. The result is a process that is structured, efficient, and easier to navigate.
Blue North has recently worked with two organisations, Tokara and in2food, on setting and successfully validating their Science Based Targets.
From Commitment to Submission: Tokara
Tokara provides a strong example of how structured support can turn climate intent into tangible progress. From the outset, the focus was on building a clear understanding of the SBTi framework and its relevance within the wine industry.
Blue North supported Tokara in defining its organisational boundaries, preparing for and executing data collection, and ensuring the integrity of its emissions data. From there, the Blue North team guided the development of appropriate targets and managed the submission process.
“Registering our formal intent to reduce emissions was a strategic priority, and we needed a partner that could navigate the process with precision and clarity. Blue North provided exactly that. Their team transformed a complex procedure into a streamlined, efficient journey. Their expertise ensured our submission was not only compliant but robust and forward-looking. Choosing Blue North allowed us to move with speed and confidence, turning our sustainability pledge into a documented, actionable first step. We are now clearly positioned on our decarbonisation pathway, thanks to their exceptional service.” – Karl Lambour, General Manager at Tokara
Delivering Through Complexity: in2food
in2Food’s experience highlights the importance of persistence and collaboration in achieving validated targets. The SBTi process in this case involved detailed data interrogation, multiple review cycles, and close coordination across teams.
Blue North provided consistent support throughout, helping to navigate technical requirements, refine data inputs, and respond effectively to feedback. This structured approach ultimately led to the successful validation of in2Food’s near-term corporate targets.
A Practical Partner for a Complex Process
What sets Blue North apart is not just technical expertise, but a commitment to practical, hands-on support. Clients are guided at every stage: from initial training through to final validation, ensuring they are never navigating the process alone. This approach enables organisations to move forward with confidence, even in the face of complexity.
For organisations considering Science Based Targets, the journey starts with understanding what data is required and putting the right systems in place to collect it. From there, the path becomes significantly clearer with the right guidance.
If your organisation is considering SBTi, Blue North can help you navigate the process from measurement and target development through to submission and validation, turning climate ambition into credible and science-based action.