Why Science-Based Targets for Nature 2.0 matter

Setting credible targets for nature can be difficult when data is incomplete, and visibility across complex value chains is limited.

The Science Based Targets Network (SBTN) has released an updated version of its Science-Based Targets for Nature guidance, known as SBTN 2.0. The updated guidance is intended to provide more ways to assess and prioritise impacts, set targets, and implement, including where data or value-chain visibility is incomplete.

For Australian organisations already considering or using the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) as part of their broader sustainability reporting approach, the update is particularly relevant. The SBTN guidance and TNFD framework are now more closely aligned, allowing organisations to reuse relevant nature-related data and analysis across assessment, disclosure and target-setting.

How SBTN 2.0 makes nature target-setting more flexible

Impacts and dependencies on nature can vary by location, supplier and value chain activity. Deciding where to focus can therefore be difficult when information across operations and supply chains is incomplete.

SBTN 2.0 introduces several changes to make it easier to start with existing information. These include:

• Options to focus on a defined part of the business
• Supplier-engagement targets
• Options to validate targets in stages
• Expanded freshwater and land guidance
• Additional pathways for sectors including mining, infrastructure, construction and extractives
• Resources to support implementation after a target is set.

Together, these changes create more flexibility around how and where target-setting can begin. Incomplete data or value-chain visibility does not necessarily prevent progress, although the additional flexibility does not remove the need for location-specific assessment, independent validation or transparent disclosure.

How do SBTN and TNFD fit together?

The TNFD framework helps organisations identify and disclose their nature-related impacts, dependencies, risks and opportunities. SBTN builds on this by providing guidance for organisations to determine where action is needed and which science-based targets to set. The two approaches are now more closely aligned, so companies can reuse relevant data, analysis and outputs rather than starting fresh for each framework.

This alignment is also becoming increasingly relevant to the broader nature-related reporting landscape. The ISSB has now issued its Exposure Draft on Nature-related Disclosures, building on concepts and approaches developed through TNFD. Taken together, the ISSB, TNFD and SBTN developments are beginning to connect assessment, disclosure and target setting more clearly.

Understanding nature-related dependencies and impacts provides the foundation for both reporting and action. Our related article, Before you report on nature, you need to understand it, explores why developing that understanding is an important first step.

Making progress without perfect data

Perfect information is rarely available when decisions about nature need to be made. Gaps in data, limited supply chain traceability and complex value chains can make it difficult to determine where to focus action and how progress should be measured.

SBTN 2.0 recognises this reality by providing more flexibility to start with the information already available, focus action where visibility is sufficient, and address gaps over time.

How BDO can help

If you've already started assessing nature-related impacts and dependencies, SBTN 2.0 provides another way to put that work to use. BDO's sustainability reporting team can work with you to understand where existing analysis provides a foundation for target-setting, where gaps remain and where action could be prioritised.