SBTi, a well-known organization that helps companies set voluntary greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets, has announced the resignation of CEO Luiz Amaral after more than two years in the role. He cited personal reasons for his departure, which marks the end of a turbulent period at the organization.
Amaral was appointed as SBTi’s first CEO in February 2022, coming from founding partner World Resources Institute. Prior to this role, he served as the head of sustainability for Rabobank. Under his leadership, SBTi transitioned to a standalone organization after initially being managed by a group of founding NGOs. SBTi now operates as a charity, with its validation arm as a separate subsidiary.
The controversy surrounding the organization’s future arose on April 10 when an unexpected announcement that SBTi would consider allowing companies to use carbon credits to offset emissions led to calls for Amaral’s resignation from some SBTI staff and advisors.
SBTi was established in 2014 to assist companies in setting voluntary targets that align their greenhouse gas emissions reductions with the Paris Agreement. Currently, 4,205 companies have SBTI-validated targets, with 449 working towards meeting its corporate net-zero standard. Some companies have faced challenges in having their targets validated or have chosen not to adhere to SBTI’s framework like Microsoft and Walmart.
Franceso Starace, the chairperson of the organization, reaffirmed SBTi’s mission and assured a smooth transition following Amaral’s resignation. He stated that “The crucial work of SBTi will continue thanks to the committed efforts and decision of colleagues alongside the technical council and all those within companies who put their trust in SBTI.” Jenny Ehr will serve as interim CEO while the board searches for a permanent replacement during this period of transition.
In conclusion, Luiz Amaral’s departure from his position at Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) signifies an end of an era for this renowned organization that is known for validating corporate greenhouse gas emissions goals. However, it presents an opportunity for new leadership and direction as SBTi continues its mission to help companies around the world deliver on their commitments under the Paris Agreement.
