SBTi for SMEs: administrative burden or smart strategic choice?

Your biggest client sends an email: “By 2026, we only want to work with suppliers who can scientifically substantiate their CO2 targets. Can you demonstrate that you have SBTi targets?”

You Google 'SBTi'. You see complex flowcharts, hefty reports, multi-year processes. You think: this is for multinationals, not for our company with 100 employees.

Wrong. SBTi also has a dedicated pathway for SMEs. Less paperwork, lower costs, the same credibility. Here you can read exactly how to navigate that pathway – practically and efficiently.

SBTi: a perfect fit for SMEs?

Many Flemish SMEs are taking steps in CO2 reduction and energy efficiency, but are still looking for a well-founded method that is both feasible and impactful. An efficient way to make progress is the SBTi framework. But first: what exactly is SBTi? And more importantly: what does it mean for your company?

What is SBTi?

The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is a globally recognized framework that helps companies set science-based climate targets, in line with the 1.5°C goal of the Paris Agreement. SBTi employs a clear methodology: companies map their current emissions (Scope 1, 2, and 3) and formulate reduction targets that fit within the framework.

And for SMEs?

Unachievable? Not at all.

Specifically for SMEs, SBTi offers a simplified procedure with less complex reporting requirements.

• Unlike larger companies, as an SME you don't have to present extensive modeling or analyses.
• You can submit your targets through a streamlined process, with less administrative burden for your company.
• As an SME, you only need to submit Scope 1 and 2 to SBTi, along with a commitment to also work on Scope 3 in the coming years.

It's also worth noting that the costs for submitting and having targets approved have been reduced for SMEs, making it more financially accessible. Furthermore, many subsidies for energy-saving investments are available in Belgium.

Why SBTi is strategic for SMEs too

Competitive Advantage:

More and more large companies are actively encouraging their suppliers to make sustainability efforts to better achieve their own goals. Without concrete, tangible insight into your emissions (via SBTi, EcoVadis, or other frameworks), you will soon fall behind in tenders and contract renewals.

Cost Efficiency:

SBTi is a driver for cost savings. According to SBTi research companies with science-based targets achieve an average annual reduction of 6.4% in Scope 1 and 2 emissions – well above the 4.2% needed for the 1.5°C target. This way, you not only contribute to a better environment but also reduce your operational costs.

Practical frameworks are becoming the norm:

Large clients are increasingly requesting standardized reporting through practical frameworks such as SBTi, VSME, EcoVadis or the CO2 Performance Ladder. By starting with SBTi now, you prepare your company for this market demand and any future regulations.

Questions about how to implement SBTi as an SME? Talk to an expert.

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How to get started as an SME

Our advice? No matter which framework you use: don't get lost in reports, but focus on tangible actions.

1. Start with a CO2 baseline

Map your Scope 1 and 2 emissions: your direct emissions and energy consumption. These are the emissions from your own activities – think of your vehicle fleet, heating, production processes, and electricity consumption. Read more about the importance of a CO₂-baseline, and how to get started with it.

2. Get started with SBTi

Work with SBTi's simplified SME methodology: a fixed template, less reporting burden, and guidance for initial targets. As an SME, you only need to submit Scope 1 and 2, with a commitment for future Scope 3 actions. To meet client requirements, you can also consider an alternative, such as EcoVadis scorecards or the CO₂-Performance Ladder for process optimization.

3. Set specific targets

Link reduction targets to specific KPIs, such as energy consumption or CO₂-emissions per production unit. A dashboard or reporting system helps you keep track of progress. Companies that integrate climate targets into their business strategy demonstrably make more progress. Regular monitoring and annual evaluation of your targets help achieve results faster and adjust where necessary.

Why you should act now rather than later

The SBTi framework is not just for multinationals; it also provides SMEs with a practical guide to link sustainable business practices with concrete, pragmatic objectives – thereby making progress step by step.

SMEs that report according to SBTi standards gain a competitive edge, save costs, and strengthen their customer relationships. Furthermore, SBTi offers SMEs a simplified route with a streamlined methodology and less reporting burden.

And if you don't want to do it all alone? Mantis Consulting guides you from CO2 baseline to approved SBTi targets, action plan, and concrete results.