Science-Based Targets for Sub-National Governments
Why sub-national governments should set an emissions reduction target aligned with science
Cities, states and regions are critical for a zero emissions and resilient planet.
Science tells us we must act urgently to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 48% by 2030 and achieve net zero emissions by 2050, to limit global warming to 1.5 °C above pre-industrial levels (IPCC AR6).
Sub-national governments vary in their historical responsibility for climate change and their current capacity to respond to it. A science-based methodology ensures these factors are reflected in a target, so it represents a fair share of emissions reductions for subnational governments.
A science-based climate target is a jurisdiction-wide emissions reduction target aligned with the global effort to halve emissions by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050 or sooner. In addition to a net zero target year, interim targets are essential for tracking progress and staying on course toward longer-term targets.
How to set a science-based target
Step 1. Review the resources.
Read the Guide for Cities produced by the core cities partners of the Science Based Targets Network - CDP, C40, Global Covenant of Mayors (GCoM), ICLEI, WRI and WWF. The guide will give you an introduction to science-based climate targets and an understanding of three different methodologies cities can use to develop your target.
States and regions can set a science-based target by using the WWF One Planet City Challenge (OPCC) methodology – one of the three methodologies identified by the Science Based Targets Network (SBTN). Watch WWF’s global webinar to explore the updated OPCC Assessment Framework and understand how it can strengthen your city's climate journey.
Read the Integrity Matters for Cities, States and Regions report to learn about core recommendations focused on credibility, accountability, and transparency.
Step 2: Set or check your target. If you do not have a target, or your target needs updating, use the methodologies in the Guide for Cities to set a science-based target.
C40 cities will have their targets checked by C40. Please make sure to report all relevant emissions reduction targets from your jurisdiction.
UK cities using the Tyndall Centre Methodology: The Tyndall Local Carbon Budgets tool has helped local authorities to set climate change goals aligned with the Paris Agreement 1.5 C global warming temperature target. However, the Tyndall Centre carbon budgets for climate change targets project ended in 2021 and the associated support website is now offline. UK cities that have adopted science-based targets using the Tyndall Carbon Budgets tool should provide evidence that the adopted targets align with those recommended by Tyndall through a link or attachment in their report.
Step 3: Report your target by disclosing it to CDP-ICLEI Track or CDP States and Regions using CDP’s 2026 questionnaires, guidance, and scoring methodologies. If you do not have a target, please indicate why you have not yet set one in your response. Disclose annually to track progress against your target. It may be necessary to update your target over time, based on progress to date and developments in climate science.
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