More companies committed to validated emission targets in 2025, SBTi reports

April 9 (Reuters) - The number of companies with validated climate and emission targets, including net-zero commitments, saw robust growth in 2025, according to a study released on Thursday by the corporate climate group Science Based Targets initiative.

Validated targets refer to decarbonization and emissions reduction goals developed by the SBTi, which provides a framework for companies to establish and validate these targets.

• The report showed 9,764 companies had SBTi-validated targets by the end of last year, an increase of 40%, while companies with validated net-zero targets grew by 61% during the same period.

• Asia emerged as the fastest-growing region, recording a 53% increase in companies setting targets, adding 1,216 companies, closely matching Europe's increase of 1,209.

• Africa rose 48%, while Latin America and the Caribbean region saw a growth of 42%.

• Japan led with 2,091 companies with validated targets, followed by the United Kingdom with 1,363 companies and the U.S. with 943 companies.

• Europe accounted for 49% of all targets, Asia for 36% and North America for 11%.

• Healthcare, information technology and materials led sector growth, reflecting momentum across both service-based and industrial segments.