EC Focus Supports Australia’s First SBTi-Aligned Emissions Target under New 2024 Buildings Guidance

EC Focus has cemented its role as a climate transition leader by supporting Levande to become the first corporation in Australia to have its emissions reduction target approved under the 2024 Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) Buildings Sectoral Decarbonisation Pathway.

Levande, a major operator of retirement living communities, successfully had its near-term targets validated by the SBTi as aligned with the most ambitious 1.5°C trajectory — thanks to EC Focus’ end-to-end technical and strategic support.

“We engaged EC Focus to support our SBTi near-term target submission, drawing on EC Focus deep knowledge of the SBTi target-setting process,” said Colin Roberts, Head of Sustainability at Levande. “Their expertise was instrumental in helping us navigate the updated criteria and expand our Scope 3 boundary and inclusions.”

The project showcases EC Focus’ practical expertise in helping organisations turn climate ambition into credible, science-based action. Key services provided included:

• Gap analysis of Levande’s GHG inventory against SBTi requirements

• Modelling science-based target options using the 2024 SBTi buildings guidance

• Support in obtaining third-party assurance of emissions data

• Full guidance through submission and validation

• Alignment with GHG Protocol and SBTi standards

“Setting a science-based target is now not only a strategic move — it’s a regulatory and investor expectation,” said Erica Rabelo, Lead Consultant for Climate Transition at EC Focus. “As mandatory climate disclosures roll out across Australia, we’re proud to support clients like Levande in setting the standard for corporate climate action.”

Starting 1 January 2025, over 6,000 Australian businesses will be required to report climate-related risks and emissions under the Australian Sustainability Reporting Standards (ASRS) — with broader implications across supply chains. EC Focus is already working with organisations to prepare for these changes by developing robust GHG inventories, setting targets, and defining actionable decarbonisation strategies.

The full case study can be accessed here. 

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