Science-based targets hit 10,000 companies as Asia narrows the gap on Europe

The number of companies with validated science-based targets reached 9,764 by the close of 2025, a 40% increase on the previous year, according to the latest figures from the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The 10,000-company threshold was crossed in January 2026, marking a significant milestone in the mainstream adoption of corporate sustainability commitments.

A Japanese executive examining global climate target growth figures displayed on his screens. AI generated picture.

Net-zero target-setting outpaced even that growth rate. Validated net-zero commitments rose by 61% over the same period, suggesting that companies are increasingly moving beyond near-term targets towards longer-horizon sustainability planning.

The most significant regional shift of 2025 is Asia's accelerating role in corporate target-setting. A 53% increase in companies adopting validated targets made it the fastest-growing region globally, and for the first time, its absolute growth is running neck and neck with Europe. Asia added 1,216 companies with validated targets over the year; Europe added 1,209.

Crucially, the momentum extends beyond the region's established economies. Strong uptake in Indonesia, Pakistan, Singapore, and Thailand points to a widening base of adoption rather than concentration in a handful of large markets.

Europe holds its position as the leading region in absolute terms, representing 49% of all validated targets worldwide. Asia accounts for 36% and North America for 11%. Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean posted proportional growth of 48% and 42%, respectively, indicating that the trend is not confined to wealthier markets.

At the country level, Japan remains the outright leader with 2,091 companies holding validated targets at the end of 2025. The United Kingdom follows with 1,363, and the United States with 943.

Sector-level data highlights Healthcare, Information Technology, and Materials as the fastest-growing areas, reflecting adoption across both service and industrial segments of the economy.

SBTi Chief Executive Officer David Kennedy connected the data to the underlying commercial rationale for target-setting: 'There is clear evidence about the business benefits of science-based target-setting—this is a key lever for companies to manage transition risk and strengthen business resilience, remaining competitive now and in the future. The data in this report shows that despite political headwinds, increasing numbers of companies in every region are setting science-based targets. In doing so they are part of a market transformation that is good for business while contributing to achieving global climate objectives.'