Shein’s Emissions Targets Validated by SBTi Despite 45% Emissions Surge in 2023
Shein, the Chinese ultra-fast fashion giant, has had its science-based greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)—a major step toward aligning its operations with global climate goals.
The validation comes despite Shein’s emissions rising by 45% in 2023, highlighting the tension between its rapid growth and sustainability commitments. The approval from SBTi means that Shein’s targets are now officially aligned with the Paris Agreement’s goal to limit global warming to well below 2°C, and ideally 1.5°C.
What This Means
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SBTi approval lends credibility to Shein’s sustainability roadmap and puts pressure on the brand to follow through with real reductions in emissions.
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It also signals a growing trend: even the most criticized fast fashion players are being pushed to formalize—and be held accountable for—their environmental impact.
The Bigger Picture
Shein’s business model, which thrives on high-volume, low-cost, fast-turnaround production, has drawn sharp criticism for contributing to overconsumption, environmental degradation, and labor exploitation.
This recent SBTi validation could be viewed as an effort to rebuild trust with regulators, investors, and eco-conscious consumers—but many advocacy groups are watching closely to see if actions match promises.
