By: Devane Sharma
What is Net Zero, and Why Does It Matter? | How Does SBTi Enhance Net Zero Goals? | Steps to Setting SBTi-Aligned Net Zero Targets | How is Musim Mas Leading the Way? | Net Zero Goals are Imperative, Not Optional
Pursuing net zero emissions is becoming the gold standard for corporate climate action. However, not all net zero commitments are created equal—some are vague, while others lack measurable accountability. This is where the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) steps in. It establishes rigorous frameworks for companies to set and achieve net zero emissions in line with the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C.
As a leading player in the sustainable palm oil industry, we understand the need for clear, science-based pathways to address the climate crisis. Musim Mas is committed to aligning our sustainability efforts with SBTi targets, ensuring we contribute to a verifiable, evidence-backed net zero future.
What is Net Zero, and Why Does It Matter?
Net zero refers to balancing the greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere and those removed from it. Reaching net zero emissions is essential to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change, such as rising sea levels, extreme weather patterns, and threats to biodiversity and food security. Scientists agree that achieving net zero by 2050 is vital to staying within the 1.5°C temperature increase limit outlined in the Paris Agreement.
For corporations, committing to net zero involves more than offsetting emissions. It requires reducing emissions across supply chains, from production to distribution. Businesses must adopt innovative solutions, invest in renewable energy, and engage stakeholders, such as suppliers and customers, to make meaningful progress.
How Does SBTi Enhance Net Zero Goals?
The Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) is a leading framework for businesses to set climate goals that align with climate science. Unlike generic net zero pledges, SBTi provides companies with a clear, measurable, and transparent pathway to reduce emissions. Key elements of SBTi’s methodology include:
- Science-Based Goals: Targets are grounded in scientific evidence to align with the 1.5°C climate goal.
- Independent Validation: Commitments are reviewed and validated by climate experts to ensure credibility.
- Accountability and Reporting: Companies must monitor and disclose progress, fostering transparency.
- Short- and Long-Term Targets: SBTi mandates near- and long-term reduction plans, ensuring consistent progress.
By adopting SBTi standards, businesses demonstrate a serious commitment to sustainability, earning trust from investors, customers, and regulators.
Steps to Setting SBTi-Aligned Net Zero Targets
Companies aspiring to achieve SBTi-approved net zero targets can follow these steps:
- Calculate Baseline Emissions – Measure Scope 1 (direct emissions), Scope 2 (indirect emissions from electricity), and Scope 3 (emissions across the value chain) following the GHG Protocol.
- Set Near- and Long-term Targets – Develop reduction targets for the next decade, mapped to the 1.5°C pathway.
- Submit for Validation – Get the targets independently validated by SBTi to ensure they meet the rigorous criteria.
- Implement Reduction Measures – Invest in energy efficiency, renewable sources, and sustainable practices across operations.
- Monitor and Report Progress – Regularly disclose emissions and updates to maintain transparency and accountability.
How is Musim Mas Leading the Way?
Musim Mas has long emphasized sustainability as a core value, and our commitment to achieving net zero emissions exemplifies this dedication. In January 2024, Musim Mas pledged to reach net zero emissions by 2050, and SBTi verified our targets in October 2024. Here’s how we’re acting on climate responsibility:
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Industry Collaboration
Musim Mas is driving collective action in the palm oil sector through initiatives like the Agriculture Sector Roadmap to 1.5°C, developed in collaboration with 13 leading agribusinesses. This roadmap prioritizes reducing emissions from land-use changes while safeguarding food security, smallholder livelihoods, and economic growth.
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Comprehensive GHG Reductions
Our No Deforestation, No Peat, No Exploitation (NDPE) policy, established in 2014, laid the groundwork for significant GHG reductions. We were among the first in the industry to install a methane capture facility for most of our mills. We are expanding our GHG inventory to include Scope 3 emissions, aligning with the GHG Protocol standards promoted by SBTi.
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Transparency and Accountability
Since 2017, we’ve submitted annual emissions data through initiatives like the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP). With SBTi validation, we’re accelerating efforts to set science-based group-level reduction targets, ensuring our actions align with the demands of our climate reality.
Recognizing the role of smallholder farmers in sustainable agriculture, Musim Mas operates one of Indonesia’s most extensive independent smallholder programs. By providing training and resources, we help smallholders adopt climate-smart farming techniques that reduce deforestation and enhance productivity.
Net Zero Goals are Imperative, Not Optional
Achieving net zero is more than a moral obligation; it’s a competitive advantage. Investors, consumers, and regulators increasingly favour companies that commit to sustainability. For industries like palm oil, where environmental concerns are significant, aligning operations with SBTi targets showcases leadership and accountability.
The urgent challenge of climate change is an opportunity to lead by example. With SBTi-approved targets and actionable strategies in motion, we’re charting a sustainable path for the palm oil sector and beyond.
Closing Thoughts
Net zero is critical in combating climate change, but achieving it requires more than intent—it demands science, accountability, and action. Through SBTi’s robust framework, companies can transition from vague pledges to meaningful progress.
References:
https://carboncloud.com/blog/sbti/
https://plana.earth/academy/science-based-targets-sbti-explained
https://www.anthesisgroup.com/au/insights/science-based-targets-what-are-they-and-why-set-one/
https://greenly.earth/en-us/blog/company-guide/what-is-the-science-based-targets-initiative-sbti
https://carboncloud.com/blog/sbti/