What is net zero and should your business be working towards it?

Net zero refers to achieving an overall balance between greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere and greenhouse gases removed from the atmosphere. Should your business be working towards net-zero goals? Come down the net zero rabbit hole with us to find out more.

We have all heard the term net-zero, but what does it actually mean?

  • Carbon dioxide
  • Methane
  • Nitrous oxide
  • Fluorinated gases

Should your business be working towards net zero goals?

  • Attracting high-calibre employees. Employees often feel more engaged and proud to work for a business that values environmental sustainability and actively contributes to environmental change.
  • Cost savings. Adopting energy-efficient technology, optimising resource use, and reducing waste often lead to significant cost savings over time. Energy efficiency measures can lower operational expenses, such as energy bills, directly impacting your bottom line.
  • Risk management. Climate change and environmental challenges can threaten supply chains, operations, and business continuity. You can better manage these risks by reducing your carbon footprint and environmental impact.

How to begin your net zero journey

  • Large organisations are setting 1.5 degrees as their targets. Your organisation will potentially be in their supply chain so this will ensure that you meet any external carbon standards imposed on your organisation.
  • This is the “science based target” that is already gaining traction with many organisations.

Measure your current emissions

Take action by introducing a reduction strategy
  • Lighting and heating upgrades
  • Waste management process
  • Manufacturing process investment
  • Supply chain certification
  • Travel and logistics review
Record your achievements
Offset

Share your achievements

  • Boost profitability
  • Create shareholder value
  • Strengthen brand reputation
  • De-risk the value chain

How do you become carbon positive?

  • Eliminating the use of fossil fuels;
  • Sourcing all energy from renewable sources;
  • Understanding your organisations impact on biodiversity; and
  • Ensuring that your activities don’t create carbon emissions (e.g. ensuring that you have policies and procedures in place with regards to deforestation, water use etc)