Corporate Backsliding on Climate Pledges Can't Be Justified

Many companies, including sustainability leaders like Unilever and Microsoft, have failed to meet net zero targets set by the SBTi within the agreed 24-month period. These companies are shifting focus to near-term targets and their own emissions rather than addressing scope 3 emissions, which include suppliers and customers. This self-justifying pragmatism hinders the necessary value chain collaboration to scale up clean materials production. While aspirational climate leadership is crucial for momentum, the reality of achieving these targets is now creating significant challenges.