London, UK: 65% of UK firms have plans to cut emissions to net zero by the 2050 deadline, according to a new study. The report covering 2,005 organisations of all sizes and sectors by UK Business Climate Hub, found that only half of those surveyed were even measuring their carbon footprint.
Those that did have a plan to meet net zero carbon emissions – which means they and their supply chain would not emit more greenhouse gas emissions than they absorbed – reported that there were many barriers in place that may make the target impossible to meet.
Specific barriers identified in the report, released last week, included post-Brexit regulatory uncertainty. The report said: “Regulatory certainty can make it easier for companies to commit to long-term sustainability goals and integrate them into their core operations.”
Companies also reported that infrastructure including transport was not green enough, and there had not been enough government and financial support to boost energy efficiency, renewables and other carbon-saving measures. Ninety-two percent of organisations said improved government support would be beneficial, for giving information and advice on emissions reductions, helping to finance the transition, and having stable long-term regulatory policies.
Ed Lockhart, at the Broadway Initiative, which manages UK Business Climate Hub, said: “The leadership shown by many UK organisations in the census is deeply inspiring, helping accelerate our collective progress towards a more sustainable future. Despite these significant strides, substantial challenges remain, particularly for small and medium-size enterprises who often lack the same access to resources available to larger organisations.
