Bilan Carbone: What is the difference between SBTi and SBTN for the textile and furniture sectors?

In a global context where the fight against climate change and the preservation of biodiversity are priorities, companies in the fashion, textile andfurniture sectors are particularly concerned. These industries have a significant environmental impact, from the production of raw materials to the distribution of finished products.

Two major initiatives stand out to help these companies reduce their environmental footprint: the SBTi (Science Based Targets initiative) and the SBTN (Science Based Targets Network).

But what's the difference between these two initiatives, how can they specifically help companies in these sectors, and how do you choose between the two? We answer all these questions in this article.

What is SBTi?

The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is a collaboration between CDP (Carbon Disclosure Project), the UN Global Compact, the World Resources Institute (WRI) and WWF. Launched in 2015, this initiative helps companies define greenhouse gas(GHG) emission reduction targets in line with scientific recommendations to limit global warming to well below 2°C, in line with the Paris Agreement.

For the fashion, textile and furniture industries, SBTi provides a framework for :

• Measure GHG emissions throughout the value chain, including scopes 1, 2 and 3.
• Set reduction targets in line with climate science.
• Validate these objectives through an independent review process.
• Communicate progress transparently.

Why SBTi is relevant to these sectors

• High carbon footprint: Textile and furniture production often involves energy-intensive processes and carbon-intensive raw materials.
• Complex supply chains: Companies need to work with many suppliers to reduce upstream emissions.
• Consumer pressure: Growing demand for sustainable products is prompting brands to adopt climate-friendly practices.

What is SBTN?

The Science Based Targets Network (SBTN) extends the concept of science-based targets beyond climate, encompassing all aspects of nature, including biodiversity,water, land and oceans. Launching in 2019, the SBTN aims to help companies set targets to preserve and restore natural ecosystems, recognizing that climate and nature are intrinsically linked.

For fashion, textile and furniture companies, SBTN offers a framework for :

• Assess the impact on biodiversity, particularly when sourcing raw materials such as cotton, wood or leather.
• Prioritize critical areas for action, such as sustainable water management and avoided deforestation.
• Setting scientific goals for nature.
• Integrate these objectives into the company's overall strategy.

Why SBTN is relevant to these sectors

• Impact on biodiversity: Textile and furniture production can contribute to biodiversity loss through deforestation, pesticide use and water pollution.
• Water management: Dyeing and finishing processes are water-intensive and can contaminate local water sources.
• Regulatory expectations: Stricter regulations on environmental impact call for a holistic approach to sustainability.

The main differences between SBTi and SBTN

1. Scope of objectives

• SBTi: Focuses exclusively on reducing GHG emissions and combating climate change.
• SBTN: Takes a holistic approach, including climate and other natural elements such as biodiversity, water, land and oceans.

2. Methodological framework

• SBTi: Has well-established methodologies for setting science-based climate targets, including specific guidelines for carbon-intensive sectors.
• SBTN: In the process of developing methodologies for other areas of nature, with guidance already available for some sectors, including guides for the sustainable management of natural resources.

3. Initiative maturity

• SBTi: More mature, with many companies in the fashion, textile and furniture sectors having already set and validated their climate targets.
• SBTN: More recent, in the process of developing and implementing methodologies for nature, but rapidly gaining in importance.

4. Alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• SBTi: Main contributor to ODD 13 (Climate Action).
• SBTN: Contributes to a number of the MDGs, including MDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), MDG 14 (Aquatic Life) and MDG 15 (Terrestrial Life).

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How to choose between SBTi and SBTN for your company

The choice between SBTi and SBTN depends on your company's specific needs in the fashion, textile and furniture sectors.

1. Environmental impact analysis

• Focus on GHG emissions: If your activities involve high levels of GHG emissions, particularly in production or transport, SBTi is a logical place to start.
• Impact on biodiversity and water: If your supply chain involves the intensive use of natural resources or affects ecosystems, SBTN is essential.

2. Positioning in the value chain

• Brands and retailers: These players can influence their suppliers' practices and could benefit from an integrated approach by adopting both SBTi and SBTN.
• Manufacturers and suppliers: If you're involved in direct production, SBTi can help reduce operational emissions, while SBTN can improve natural resource management.

3. Current commitment to sustainability

• Beginner level: Start with SBTi to address GHG emissions before embarking on broader initiatives with SBTN.
• Advanced commitment: If you already have sustainability programs in place, integrating SBTN can strengthen your environmental strategy.

4. Available resources

• Internal capacity: Assess whether you have the human and financial resources to commit to one or other initiative.
• Partnerships: Consider collaborating with specialized organizations or consultants to facilitate the process.

5. Alignment with corporate strategy

• Business objectives: Ensure that the chosen initiative supports your long-term business and strategic objectives.
• Stakeholder engagement: Consider the expectations of your customers, employees, investors and local communities.

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