The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has launched the SBTi Academy, a new e-learning platform designed to equip sustainability professionals with the skills needed to set and deliver science-based climate targets [1]. Alongside the platform, the SBTi also announced the world’s first register of SBTi Certified Experts, marking a significant step in strengthening global capacity for corporate decarbonization [2].

Founded in 2015, SBTi has established itself as a leading authority on science-based target setting, providing companies with technical guidance, validation, and standards aligned with climate science [1]. With global demand for sustainability skills rising sharply, the Academy is intended to close the gap between ambition and technical expertise. According to SBTi, demand for green talent is outpacing supply twofold, with 76% of businesses citing early-stage skills as their biggest upskilling challenge [2].

The SBTi Academy offers three distinct hubs tailored to different experience levels: an Onboarding Hub providing free introductory training; a Practitioners Hub delivering advanced modules on areas such as the GHG Protocol and net-zero target setting; and a Certification Hub, where professionals undergo a rigorous seven-part assessment to qualify as SBTi Certified Experts [1][2].

Certified experts, who are now listed on SBTi’s first public register, have demonstrated advanced proficiency in greenhouse gas inventory assessment, target modelling, and the complexities of linking climate science to business operations [2]. The certification is designed to help businesses navigate increasingly complex sustainability reporting, disclosure requirements, and climate-related risk management.

Tracy Wyman, Chief Impact Officer of SBTi, emphasized the Academy’s role in bridging critical knowledge gaps: “By providing foundational knowledge for those just setting out… and certification for sustainability experts already helping companies… the SBTi Academy aims to bridge the skills gap to set companies up for success” [1][2].

References

[1] ESG Today. “Science Based Targets initiative Launches New Training and Certification Platform.” https://www.esgtoday.com/sbti-launches-new-science-based-climate-target-training-and-certification-platform/

[2] Science Based Targets initiative. “The SBTi publishes the first ever register of certified science-based target setting experts.” https://sciencebasedtargets.org/news/first-register-of-certified-science-based-target-setting-experts