SBTi publishes roadmap for decarbonization of the chemical industry

The Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) has published a comprehensive set of net-zero emissions pathways for the global chemical industry, offering manufacturers a clear set of trajectories for some of the sector's most emissions-intensive processes, reports esgnews.com.

The publication, which includes supporting performance criteria, is designed to give one of the world's highest-emitting industrial sectors a defined transition path in line with science-based climate goals.

The chemical industry is at the heart of modern manufacturing, supplying raw materials for 95% of all products. This central role brings enormous potential for decarbonisation: the sector is the largest industrial energy user and the third largest source of industrial greenhouse gas emissions.

The new framework aims to change this profile by helping companies set goals aligned with both the corporate net zero standard and corporate short-term criteria.

Sector-specific roads

The Chemicals Sector Pathways and Implementation Criteria contain a set of emission trajectories covering the main production pathways and impacts on the downstream use phase. These include pathways for ammonia, methanol and high-value chemicals, as well as guidance for nitrous oxide emitted during nitric acid production.

Additional pathways include emissions from non-primary chemicals, reducing nitrogen oxides associated with fertilizers during agricultural use, and increasing alternative feedstocks to reduce the overall carbon footprint of the sector.

By combining these pathways, companies can develop short- and long-term decarbonization strategies that reflect the realities of their assets, product portfolios, and market exposure. The intention is to translate the diversity of chemical processes into a unified methodology that still respects operational nuances.

"The chemicals sector is central to the transition to net zero emissions, given its fundamental role in the global economy. Our new criteria reflect common ground across the diverse set of processes used in the sector, translating them into pathways for chemical manufacturers to act decisively to achieve net zero emissions - unlocking innovation, efficiency and long-term business value," said David Kennedy, CEO of SBTi.

In a sector that touches almost every part of the global economy, the pace at which these goals are met will shape the broader trajectory of efforts to achieve net zero emissions in industry.