As firms and nonstate entities embrace the ongoing global momentum to pledge net-zero carbon emissions, a UN expert group has announced plans to release new guidelines for checking the credibility of their goals.

Companies, municipalities and other entities are committing to reach net zero by 2050.

Some 1,400 firms alone are reported to have drawn up such targets. But some of their targets are less plausible than others.

In response, the United Nations set up an expert group that will set criteria for assessing net-zero targets of nonstate actors.

In a meeting online Tuesday, group members agreed on the need to develop stronger and clearer standards, and that those that have made net-zero promises should report on how their efforts are proceeding from time to time.

The UN expert group disclosed that the new guidelines will be unveiled in line with the upcoming UN climate conference, or COP27, to kick off on November 6.

Catherine McKenna, chair of the High-level Expert Group on the Net-zero Emissions Commitments of Non-State Entities, noted that announcing a climate goal is easier said than done, and they must be put into practice.

She expressed readiness to eradicate goals with no substance and secure clarity that people can relate to.

Japanese authorities and others say that as of end of September, 785 municipalities in Japan, including the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and Osaka Prefecture, had set net-zero goals. There are also 47 companies, including leading pharmaceuticals and electronics firms that have done so.