Applications open for companies to pilot expanded freshwater targets

The Science Based Targets Network (SBTN) with the Accountability Accelerator are launching a pilot for companies to set and validate expanded freshwater targets.

Building on input from the 2025 public consultation, SBTN will release Version 2 of its freshwater target‑setting guidance in 2026. The updated guidance reflects the latest science and expands targets’ scope to include groundwater and pesticides—enabling companies to address a larger share of their freshwater impacts.

SBTN is seeking companies to pilot the Version 2 guidance and help further refine the methods and validation process to ensure targets are credible, practical, and ready to scale.

Applications are open until March 10, 2026. The pilot will run from June to September 2026. Up to six companies will participate, with additional companies able to join as observers to learn from the process in a lower‑commitment setting.

Companies can apply now via this form, and learn more about the opportunity below.

Benefits for participating companies

Companies that participate in the validation pilot will have access to:

• Free validation services during the pilot
• Dedicated office hours and technical support with SBTN experts
• Recognition as a first-mover through SBTN communications and events (with additional opportunities for companies that publicly disclose)

Eligibility

Participating companies must:

• Have freshwater-related impacts in their operations or supply chain.
• Agree to be referenced in external communications about the pilot and participate in SBTN’s Step Up For Nature initiative (select exceptions may be made)
• Have internal support to participate in the pilot and to disclose validated targets at the end of the pilot (if minimum criteria are met)
• Allocate sufficient staff capacity, internally or via consultants, to meet the pilot timeline

Note: Companies seeking a lower‑commitment option may join as observers. While observers will not be eligible for free validation or 1-1 support, they may attend pilot office hours to gain insights and prepare for future validation. 

What to expect during the pilot

During the pilot, companies will complete and submit:

• Steps 1–2 materiality and prioritization (if not already completed)
• Step 3 freshwater targets, where material, including water quantity (surface and groundwater) and water quality (nutrient loading and pesticides)

Participation includes an onboarding session, regular office hours, a final lessons‑learned workshop, and offline feedback through surveys and other channels.

After the pilot, companies are expected (but not required) to publicly disclose validated targets within six months.

For more information on selection criteria, company expectations, timeline, and requirements, please see here.

How to get involved

Companies interested in participating or observing the pilot can apply here by March 10, 2026. The pilot begins in June 2026.

For questions, contact corporate-engagement@sbtnetwork.org.