The Science Based Targets Network (SBTN) recently announced the first cohort of companies joining its Step Up for Nature initiative, collectively signaling their intent to take science-based action on nature in line with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
Through the initiative, companies publicly share the next step they intend to complete on their journey toward science-based targets for nature, along with the timeline for submitting their work for independent validation by the Accountability Accelerator. These intended milestones are published on SBTN’s new Ambition Board, providing transparency on companies’ direction of travel.
“By stepping up together, these companies send a clear signal that, even in uncertain times, business is moving to operationalize global goals for nature,” said Erin Billman, CEO of SBTN. “Companies are seeking clarity – and acting on it.”
Growing corporate momentum
The first 24 companies span multiple regions and industries, reflecting growing market demand for clear, science-based guidance on nature. Their stated ambitions range from completing materiality screening and value chain assessments to setting land, freshwater and ocean targets. These early movers are part of a broader pipeline of more than 150 companies preparing to set targets through SBTN and build on the first companies that already have validated freshwater and land targets.
While Step Up for Nature signals companies’ next steps, SBTN’s recently released accelerated pathways help them move more quickly through the target-setting process by allowing a flexible, focused scope, which can expand as their readiness increases.
How to join upcoming cohorts
For companies interested in joining future cohorts, sign up is on a rolling basis. With the next cohort expected in early 2026, we encourage companies to signal their intended milestone soon. To encourage early participation, the first 25 companies to subsequently submit milestones for validation with the Accountability Accelerator through the initiative are eligible for 50% reduction in validation service fees (terms and conditions apply).
Pilot programs accelerating readiness
Several cohort participants are also part of SBTN’s new pilots, which are helping refine and operationalize additional guidance.
Companies including Waitrose (part of John Lewis Partnership), Orkla Foods Sweden, and Seatopia are piloting the first ocean science-based targets for the seafood sector, using SBTN’s recently released guidance. “We aim to strengthen our risk and opportunity assessment to support science-based action to address challenges across our seafood value chains,” said Lars Lundahl, Environment & Sustainable Sourcing Manager, Orkla Foods Sweden.
Novo Nordisk and UPM-Kymmene, alongside other companies, are piloting Version 2 of SBTN’s land guidance. “Healthy ecosystems benefit not only us, but our customers and society,” said Sakari Suuriniemi, Senior Manager for Global Forest Affairs at UPM.
More resources to support companies in 2026
SBTN will issue its second and last planned major release mid-year – expanding the resources available to companies, with existing guidance already enabling credible action now. New resources will include additional coverage for land and freshwater targets, updated guidance for ocean, and additional materials to support target implementation and measurement. These updates will round out the core set of resources companies can use as they move through the target-setting process.
More information on the Step Up for Nature initiative can be found here or by contacting communications@sbtnetwork.org.
