January SBTN newsletter
This is the latest edition of our monthly newsletter, which highlights the latest news and events related to Science Based Targets Network and our wider network of partners. If you have any questions about content featured in the January SBTN newsletter, please contact us.
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Dear Colleague,
As we return from a break, it’s an opportunity to take stock of what truly matters. In the environmental impact sector, such moments often strengthen our resolve to build a safer, resilient future. This commitment not only aligns with our professional goals but can also echo our personal aspirations to safeguard the planet for future generations.
Last week at the World Economic Forum in Davos, I carried this renewed perspective, engaging in productive discussions on the acceleration and scaling of nature-positive solutions. I witnessed significant interest in the preliminary insights from the first companies setting science-based targets for nature, as part of a masterclass for companies on how to embed nature in business strategies facilitated by Capitals Coalition. We’ve shared these insights in a new blog, “Unlocking insights and changing mindsets: what it’s like to pioneer science-based targets for nature” and previewed what’s coming next.
In other SBTN partner news to share with your networks:
- In response to questions we field from companies and stakeholders on how science-based targets for nature fits within the broader landscape of global initiatives, our blog earlier this month delves into this interplay.
- A deeper examination of this alignment was shared last week by SBTN’s freshwater hub, in collaboration with the Alliance for Water Stewardship, through its paper ‘Corporate water stewardship and science-based targets for freshwater’. The paper outlines what freshwater science-based targets are, why they’re important and how they connect to related corporate water stewardship initiatives. In support of the paper, CDP hosted a webinar alongside an accompanying blog.
Two reminders:
- Data management and operations support for the target validation process. We have launched a Request for Proposals (RfP) for qualified staff/consultants that can support the development of data management processes and strategies to streamline target validations, and support preparation for the launch of a new validation model. Organizations are welcome to respond to the RfP – deadline extended to Friday 2 February, 2024.
- Train the Trainer program kicks off next week. Register here. We will be holding our first Train the Trainer session on January 29 during a live session from 4-5pm CET /10-11am ET. In this training, we will cover three broad subjects:
- Mastering the basics of SBTN, science-based targets for nature and the 5-step target setting process
- Understanding key methodological concepts and how companies can apply science-based targets for nature
- Motivating companies to start setting the targets
Lastly, I want to highlight a study by the Earth Commission outlining the ten principles and a protocol for how safe and just Earth System Boundaries can be ‘translated’ for cities and businesses. We are collaborating with the Earth Commission as part of the Global Commons Alliance and are working together to advance work on translation. This is especially critical given the plans we announced at COP28 to develop science-based targets for nature that include cities for the first time, alongside companies.
Here’s to making 2024 the year of truly ambitious action.
Erin Billman
Executive Director
Science Based Targets Network
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Get more information on science-based targets for nature, find out how to take action as a company or explore our Corporate Engagement Program.
