Corporate environmental ambition is rapidly intensifying worldwide, with the number of companies committing to both near-term and net-zero science-based targets more than tripling in just 18 months. According to the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) Trend Tracker 2025, this marks a 227% surge, signalling that green strategy is becoming deeply embedded in business planning.
Satellite view of East and Southeast Asia, centered on China, showing forests and green landscapes. AI generated picture.
Between late 2023 and mid-2025, adoption of dual targets—near-term emissions reductions combined with long-term net-zero goals—soared, while the number of firms with near-term targets alone nearly doubled. SBTi highlights this as evidence that businesses are moving beyond short-term action towards comprehensive transition planning.
Asia is proving to be a central driver of this momentum. The region saw a 134% increase in companies with validated climate targets, with China leading the charge. In just a year and a half, the number of Chinese companies with approved targets jumped from 137 to 450—a 228% increase. Other fast-growing markets include Thailand, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Korea.
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Much of this growth is concentrated in industries with significant emissions profiles. By embedding science-based goals, these companies are now influencing entire supply chains, encouraging suppliers to align with the same standards and amplifying the global impact.
The Industrials sector leads the shift, representing almost one-third of all companies with approved targets. Consumer Discretionary and Materials follow closely, reflecting the influence of manufacturing, automotive, and raw materials on global decarbonisation efforts.
By the end of 2024, companies with validated science-based targets accounted for 41% of global market capitalisation and about a quarter of global revenue, according to consulting firm Oliver Wyman.
‘Smart companies continue to see a strong business case to manage transition risk’, said David Kennedy, CEO of SBTi. ‘If businesses want to be ahead of the curve, then science-based targets are where businesses start.’
The findings point to a growing consensus: Setting clear and credible targets is not only critical for achieving net zero but also for safeguarding competitiveness in a low-carbon economy.
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The surge in science-based nature commitments highlights a decisive shift in how businesses and markets prepare for a net-zero future. As companies worldwide embed long-term decarbonisation into their strategies, the demand for credible, high-quality carbon credits is set to accelerate. This is exactly where DGB Group brings unique value. As a publicly listed company on Euronext, we develop and manage large-scale restoration projects that generate verifiable carbon units while enhancing biodiversity and strengthening local communities. The transition is underway—prepare your company for the future with us.
