March Newsletter: New Net Zero Case Study, SBTi Update, Tackling Scope 3 with Circular Economy Strategies, and More
This monthly newsletter rounds up GNFZ updates, network highlights, and net zero insights. This issue was sent to our email subscribers on March 31, 2025. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest directly to your inbox.
The Latest in March
At GNFZ, I’m dedicated to staying on top of the latest developments in the net zero space. Recently, the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) proposed several significant changes to its Corporate Net-Zero Standard, aimed at accelerating corporate decarbonization and making it easier for companies to set and achieve net zero targets. This is the first revision since it was originally launched in October 2021 and calls on companies to shift from intent to impact.
GNFZ’s certifications work in alignment with SBTi in many ways, as we’ve outlined in our SBTi crosswalk, and our certification process is designed to help businesses and organizations accelerate progress toward their SBTi targets. For instance, similarly to SBTi, GNFZ also leverages the GHG Protocol in our GHG emissions accounting. Here are some key takeaways from this update:
Enhanced Focus on Scope 3 Emissions: The new draft standard introduces more flexible options for tackling Scope 3 emissions, which are often the most challenging for businesses, such as setting targets for green procurement and revenue generation.
Increased Accountability and Progress Tracking: The revised standard emphasizes the assessment and communication of progress against targets, enhancing accountability and recognizing companies leading in decarbonization.
Support for Emerging Economies: The changes aim to make it easier for companies in emerging economies to set targets, which broadens global participation in achieving net-zero goals.
Maintaining Rigorous Standards: Despite the introduction of new rules, SBTi continues to hold a firm stance on carbon offsets, encouraging their use only for residual emissions and promoting direct decarbonization efforts.
One of the reasons that GNFZ was founded was to help the building sector – particularly existing buildings – tackle Scope 3 and embodied emissions. The sector needs flexibility and more realistic approaches to Scope 3 reduction strategies.
— Tapan Mozumdar, GNFZ Senior Vice President of Operations
Case Study: Alfa Campus
Alfa Sustainable Projects Ltd., Israel’s leading sustainable design and engineering firm, achieved GNFZ’s net zero certification for its own office, Alfa Campus, in 2024. This was the second project in the world and the first in Israel to achieve GNFZ certification.
We encourage you to review this in-depth look at the project’s net zero certification process, and share this case study with those who may be interested in learning more about or pursuing net zero for their building or business.
Tackling Scope 3 Emissions
The Global Network for Zero helps businesses address Scope 3 challenges by promoting circular economy principles in building design, construction, maintenance, and renovation.
Reach out to the Global Network for Zero today to learn how to integrate these solutions into your projects.
Network Spotlight
"In sectors like sustainability and green buildings, leadership isn’t about being first—it’s about creating a movement. It’s about showing that economic growth and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand."
We recently spoke with Sharif Alhaj, CEO at GreenMorph Global, about how to bring others along and build a movement. GreenMorph is one of GNFZ’s partners, delivering best-in-class decarbonization solutions to their clients.
Insights from GNFZ Leadership
Project Highlight: Lenskart
As a leading eyewear brand valued at over $5 billion and an ambitious goal of reaching net zero by 2040, Lenskart is leading the way in sustainable manufacturing, cutting-edge technologies, and responsible global expansion. They’re currently on track to achieve GNFZ Net Zero Operations certification in the Emissions category for their Bhiwadi factory, and were recently celebrated at our Leadership Roundtable in Bangalore for earning their Emissions Assessment certificate.
