The Race to Zero – Three Campaigns for Your Organisation to Join

In October 2018 the IPCC highlighted the need to stay below 1.5 degrees warming. Since then, a plethora of campaigns have been launched. This article evaluates three key campaigns: UNFCCC Race to Zero, Business Ambition for 1.5°C, and the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

UNFCCC Race to Zero

A global campaign rallying leadership for a zero-carbon recovery. It mobilises 449 cities, 21 regions, 995 businesses, 38 major investors, and 505 universities — representing nearly 25% of global GHG emissions. Focuses on adaptation: preparing for consequences while reducing emissions. Free to join, with access to a network, tools, and benchmarking.

Business Ambition for 1.5°C

A call to action signed by 271 corporate leaders including Unilever, Tesco, and Pepsi Co. Businesses sign a pledge to either set science-based targets in line with 1.5°C scenarios or make a net-zero commitment by 2050 with interim science-based targets. Free to join after you’ve set your science-based targets.

Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)

A partnership between CDP, UN Global Compact, WRI, and WWF. Verifies and publishes targets. Four steps: commit, set the target (24-month window), submit for verification, announce. Costs USD 4,950 for large companies; SMEs pay only $1,000 with a simplified process. Benefits include resilience, regulatory compliance, improved credibility, innovation, and cost savings through operational monitoring.

Which campaign should you join?

All three require calculating your carbon footprint as the first step. SBTi and Business Ambition for 1.5°C share the same target-setting process, so signing up to both is recommended. Race to Zero has a bigger scope, focusing not only on reducing emissions but on adaptation and governance. For maximum impact, join all three.