What does Net Zero carbon mean for businesses?

Net Zero strategy is a term used to convey a business’s overall emission reduction strategy. This blog outlines the details of what Net Zero carbon means and how businesses can make the transition.

What does Net Zero carbon mean?

Specifically, the term Net Zero refers to the balancing of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions produced by a country, company or individual with what is actively then removed from the atmosphere. For businesses, this means managing what emissions are produced from their operations and supply chain, with a strategy to limit or eliminate them. It can be a challenge for businesses to address their associated emissions, but by setting Scope 1, 2 and 3 targets, the journey can be much easier to navigate. The Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) published a standard criterion for corporates to help them navigate setting Net Zero targets and reduce their overall GHG emissions.

Interested in SBTi, but not sure if your business is large enough to set targets? Read more about it in our explainer blog: ‘Navigating SBTi for Small Businesses’.

What is the UK’s Net Zero target?

The UK government set Net Zero national target for 2050. These Net Zero targets are set to make significantly more progress towards reducing our impact on the planet and establishing new systems for the UK to rely on.

How can businesses transition to Net Zero?

Setting a baseline is essential when it comes to transitioning to Net Zero, as understanding where you are from the start is key to planning and setting a target in a manageable time frame. Working with a Net Zero consultant streamlines the target setting process, as they are equipped to take complex information and create a manageable plan of action for businesses.

Much like the UK government, businesses can transition to Net Zero by analysing operational data and setting essential targets to mitigate or reduce emissions. Making the transition can seem like a very daunting task for businesses, especially as there is a multitude of information to analyse before you can begin establishing a strategy for Scope 1, 2 and 3. Getting to the root cause of emissions and reducing emissions across the whole value chain is one way for businesses to begin managing their impact.

How can Amber help?

We offer a range of services that will support and improve your Net Zero energy strategy. If you are interested in carbon consulting or carbon reduction roadmaps, please get in touch.