The Science Based Targets initiative provides the independent validation required for NHS Evergreen Assessment Level 3 and above. While the NHS doesn’t explicitly mandate SBTi, it references SBTi as the benchmark for credible, independently validated emission reduction targets.

For NHS suppliers seeking competitive differentiation or targeting high-value contracts, SBTi validation demonstrates the ambition and rigour that procurement evaluators increasingly value.

Why SBTi Matters for NHS Suppliers

Evergreen Level 3 Requirement

Achieving Evergreen Level 3 requires independently validated targets. NHS guidance states criteria are ‘informed by leading, independent sustainability initiatives, such as the Science Based Targets initiative.’ SBTi validation is the clearest path to satisfying this requirement.

Competitive Differentiation

With 80,000+ NHS suppliers, differentiation matters. Suppliers with validated science-based targets demonstrate:

  • Credible commitment: targets verified against climate science, not self-declared
  • Transparency: public commitment with accountability
  • Decarbonisation pathway: specific roadmap to emission reductions
  • Leadership: proactive sustainability beyond minimum compliance

Future-Proofing

NHS requirements are escalating toward the 2045 supply chain net zero target. SBTi validation positions you ahead of likely future mandates and demonstrates the sustainability maturity NHS increasingly expects from suppliers.

Understanding SBTi Requirements

Target Boundaries

SBTi requires targets covering:

  • Scope 1: all direct emissions from owned/controlled sources
  • Scope 2: all indirect emissions from purchased energy
  • Scope 3: if Scope 3 represents 40%+ of total emissions (common for most businesses)

For NHS suppliers, this aligns well with April 2027 requirements for comprehensive Scope 3 reporting.

Near-Term Targets (Required)

5-10 year targets demonstrating emission reductions consistent with limiting warming to 1.5°C:

  • Scope 1 and 2: minimum 4.2% linear annual reduction
  • Scope 3: minimum 2.5% linear annual reduction if Scope 3 is significant
  • Must cover at least 95% of Scope 1 and 2 emissions
  • Must cover at least 67% of Scope 3 emissions if Scope 3 targets required

Long-Term Targets (Optional but Valuable)

Net zero targets for 2050 or earlier demonstrating 90%+ absolute reduction across all scopes with limited use of carbon removal for residual emissions. Long-term targets align with NHS 2045 supply chain net zero goal.

The SBTi Validation Process

Step 1: Commitment Letter

Submit a commitment letter to SBTi declaring intention to set science-based targets. This is publicly listed on the SBTi website and demonstrates intent while targets are developed. Commitment alone doesn’t satisfy NHS requirements—validation is needed.

Step 2: Target Development

Develop targets meeting SBTi criteria:

  • Complete emissions inventory across all scopes
  • Set base year and target year
  • Calculate required reduction trajectory
  • Identify reduction pathways and initiatives
  • Document methodology and assumptions

Step 3: Target Submission

Submit targets to SBTi for validation via their online portal. Submission includes target documentation, emissions data, and methodology description. Validation fee applies (reduced rates for SMEs).

Step 4: SBTi Review

SBTi reviews submission against their criteria. Process typically takes 4-8 weeks. Feedback may require revisions before approval.

Step 5: Validation and Publication

Upon approval, targets are validated and published on the SBTi website. You can then reference validated targets in Evergreen Assessment, procurement responses, and sustainability communications.

SBTi for SMEs

SBTi offers a streamlined route for SMEs (companies with fewer than 500 employees and less than €50 million turnover):

  • Simplified target: commit to halve emissions by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050
  • Reduced validation fee: significantly lower than standard validation
  • Streamlined process: simplified submission requirements
  • Immediate validation: faster approval for compliant submissions

The SME route provides independent validation meeting NHS Evergreen Level 3 requirements without the complexity of full SBTi target development.

SME-Appropriate Approach
SustainZone specialises in helping SMEs achieve SBTi validation efficiently. Our streamlined process focuses on meeting validation requirements without unnecessary complexity—typically completed within 3-4 months.

Common SBTi Challenges

  • Scope 3 data gaps: many suppliers lack comprehensive Scope 3 emissions data required for target setting
  • Boundary decisions: determining which emissions to include requires careful methodology
  • Ambitious trajectories: SBTi requires genuine reduction pathways, not aspirational targets
  • Subsidiary complexities: group structures require clear boundary definitions
  • Progress tracking: post-validation reporting requirements need ongoing data systems

How SustainZone Delivers SBTi Validation

Our SBTi service provides end-to-end support:

  • Emissions inventory: complete Scope 1, 2, and 3 calculations meeting SBTi requirements
  • Target development: design targets meeting SBTi criteria and your business context
  • Pathway planning: identify credible reduction initiatives to achieve targets
  • Documentation: prepare submission materials meeting SBTi validation requirements
  • Submission support: navigate the SBTi portal and respond to reviewer feedback
  • Post-validation: establish progress tracking and annual reporting processes

For SMEs using the streamlined route, we typically deliver validated targets within 3-4 months from engagement, priced from £4,500.

SBTi vs CRP: Understanding the Difference

SBTi validation and NHS Carbon Reduction Plans serve different purposes:

  • CRP: mandatory procurement document meeting PPN 006 requirements—net zero commitment, emissions data, and reduction plans
  • SBTi: voluntary independent validation of emission reduction targets against climate science

SBTi commitment alone does not satisfy CRP requirements—you still need a complete Carbon Reduction Plan. However, SBTi validation strengthens your CRP by demonstrating independently verified targets and provides pathway to Evergreen Level 3.

Get SBTi Validated

Contact SustainZone to discuss SBTi validation for your NHS supply chain position. We’ll assess your readiness and provide a clear pathway to validated science-based targets.
Email: connect@sustainzone.earth