Ready to turn your SBTi targets into measurable Scope 1 reductions? Contact Willem Boekhoven for a cost benefit simulation and discover how much industrial heat decarbonisation can save you in both CO₂ and operational costs.
What is the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)?
The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) helps companies set CO₂ reduction targets that align with climate science and the Paris Agreement. Targets are independently validated and require measurable emissions reductions within a company’s own operations.
Why is SBTi relevant for food and beverage companies?
In food and beverage production, a large share of CO₂ emissions comes from process heat for cooking, pasteurisation, sterilisation, drying, and cleaning. These emissions largely sit in Scope 1. Without decarbonising heat, SBTi targets are often not achievable in practice.
Why is renewable electricity alone not enough?
Electricity is often only part of a factory’s total energy demand. The biggest share is typically thermal energy for processes above 100°C. SBTi is about absolute emissions reduction in operations, not only electrification or compensation.
What role does industrial heat play in Scope 1 emissions?
Scope 1 emissions are direct emissions from on-site assets, such as gas and steam boilers. In food and beverage, these can represent a major share of total CO₂ emissions. That is why decarbonising heat is often the biggest lever to meet SBTi targets.
Are efficiency measures enough to meet SBTi targets?
Efficiency reduces consumption but does not change the energy source. That means dependence on fossil fuels remains. SBTi requires structural emissions reductions, which typically includes switching to renewable heat sources.
Why is high-temperature heat difficult to decarbonise?
Processes above 100°C require continuous, reliable heat. Grid constraints, electricity cost volatility, and technical limits can make full electrification challenging. Solutions therefore need to fit existing processes and infrastructure.
How does renewable industrial heat support SBTi compliance?
Renewable industrial heat replaces fossil fuels directly in the process. This delivers measurable Scope 1 reductions and supports demonstrable progress toward validated SBTi targets, without requiring a full factory redesign.
When should industrial heat be included in an SBTi roadmap?
As early as possible. Industrial heat projects require lead time for engineering, permitting, and integration. Early planning reduces schedule pressure, lowers risk, and keeps the best technology and commercial options open.
What does this mean in practice for CO₂ programme managers?
Industrial heat is a strategic workstream. It determines whether SBTi targets are feasible, how fast you can reduce emissions, and which capex or opex choices are needed. For many sites, it is the main route to rapid Scope 1 impact.
