SBTi Corporate Net-Zero Standard V2 is here. What does it mean for the carbon market?

The Science Based Targets initiative has released its Corporate Net-Zero Standard Version 2.0, formally embedding carbon credits into corporate net-zero strategies via an Ongoing Emissions Responsibility program with three recognition tiers and mandatory carbon removal coverage starting in 2035 for large companies. The standard requires verified mitigation outcomes meeting strict integrity criteria including project-level due diligence, human rights and biodiversity safeguards, and independent third-party assurance, with modeling suggesting a near 170% increase in high-quality carbon credit demand by 2030 under moderate adoption.