Net Zero

Research funded by Innovate UK shows that 74% of people think that climate change is a global emergency, and in 2019 BCG found that 75% of consumers view sustainability as extremely or very important when purchasing fashion. Research from around the world agrees that sustainability and climate impact are becoming greater factors for consumers when deciding what product or service they purchase.

Large companies recognise this and are leading the way in showcasing their green credentials to consumers. Examples include Amazon’s $2 billion climate pledge and Apple’s commitment to 100% carbon neutrality by 2030.

As larger companies face increasing legislative pressure and react to consumer trends, they are seeking to make their supply chains greener to reduce their own carbon footprint.

Net Zero and sustainability requirements are increasingly mandated in private and public procurement. For example, through their ‘climate Change Procurement Principles’, BT takes energy consumption and environmental impact into account when making decisions on suppliers and requires that any replacement supplier has lower energy consumption and environmental impact than their predecessor.

While further innovations and new technologies are needed to help businesses and society reach Net Zero, there are increasingly affordable technologies and adaptations available today that can reduce your business’s carbon footprint, while also delivering financial savings and productivity increases.

Investments such as insulating your premises or producing your own energy from solar or wind are investments that can deliver long-term savings in heating and energy bills. Similarly, using electric vehicles for your business can considerably reduce your running costs, with electric vehicles running for as little as 1p per mile, compared to 7-8p per mile for the most efficient petrol and diesel vehicles. You can also take advantage of government subsidies which include plug-in grants when purchasing the vehicles, and the Workplace Charging Scheme which provides grants for installing charging points.