Over the past few years, we’ve seen a global tide of momentum with individuals and governments declaring climate emergencies and setting net zero carbon targets.
In the UK, we have pledged to slash emissions by 78% (compared to 1990 levels) by 2035, bringing us more than three-quarters of the way to the net zero target of 2050. This means a seismic shift in replacing fossil fuels such as oil and gas to cleaner energy sources like wind farms and solar energy.
For many businesses trying to reduce energy costs and emissions it’s an ongoing challenge, especially if significant investment is needed. And despite government incentives such as the super deduction tax, a lot need practical help in developing their net zero roadmap.
Our team have been working with businesses to define what a net zero carbon strategy means to them.
Understanding carbon and setting targets
Important steps to achieving net zero include:
1 An energy policy which starts with the vison and values, enabling businesses to be at the forefront of their industry’s response to climate change.
2 A sustainability roadmap that commits all stakeholders to address the whole carbon footprint and be a carbon neutral business by a certain date and then positive beyond this.
Jason Martin, Energy Manager at Professional Energy Purchasing (PEP) comments “Businesses need to define their own carbon-cutting pathway which is appropriate for them. We’ve been using our experience and expertise to help a range of clients to understand their emissions, set targets and develop action plans for achieving them. This has given us an in-depth understanding of the carbon footprint for a range of sectors.”
“To achieve net zero carbon, we must monitor and reduce every aspect of energy and resource consumption. This will involve everyone in each business taking responsibility and committing to ensure targets are met. Only then can we look to supply all energy from renewable sources and offset any residual emissions. This should then be third party verified and disclosed on an annual basis.”
Support for your business
We help businesses by doing an initial audit of operational efficiencies to generate a comprehensive report that will advise on energy improvements.
This includes recommendations on potential savings across your site(s), new energy efficiency technology investment, pay back periods, and advice on behavioural change.
From this we can help to set operational energy intensity targets and embodied carbon targets associated with the construction of a building over its whole life, with a focus on providing a flexible, adaptable, durable design solutions.
We also advise businesses not to leave it too late. As the pandemic hopefully recedes the government will put more pressure on businesses to have a net zero policy and plan in place. This will impact on demand for sustainable solutions which may also drive up costs.
To learn more about how your business can start building a roadmap to net zero, contact our team today to book a free initial discussion.
0114 327 2645